Florence, SC, September 24, 2025
News Summary
A teaching assistant in South Carolina has been charged with disturbing schools after allegedly spraying a foul odor at West Florence High School, causing health issues for students and staff. Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, 32, faces significant legal and financial consequences linked to the health disturbances caused by the spray, which mimicked feces. The incident raised awareness about the dangers of viral pranks that disrupt school environments and threaten student safety.
South Carolina Teaching Assistant Charged After Allegedly Using Foul-Smelling Spray at West Florence High School
Florence, South Carolina – A 32-year-old teaching assistant, Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, has been arrested and charged with disturbing schools and malicious injury to property after allegedly using a foul-smelling spray at West Florence High School. The incidents reportedly took place over several weeks, from August 25 to September 19, and resulted in numerous health complaints among students and staff.
According to school officials, the spray, designed to imitate the odor of feces, was used multiple times on school grounds. In response, many students and staff experienced symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Some students required medical attention due to respiratory issues attributed to exposure to the spray, prompting concerns from both parents and school administrators.
Lewis’s actions have been costly for the school, with estimates suggesting that they have resulted in approximately $55,000 in expenses. These costs include necessary inspections and repairs of the school’s air conditioning system, which had been affected by the spray’s foul odor.
Details of the Incident
Authorities revealed that the stink spray can be easily purchased online and has gained notoriety for being used in viral pranks on social media, especially platforms like TikTok. This trend has previously resulted in legitimate health concerns and legal repercussions, as seen in similar incidents across the country.
For instance, a case in Texas in 2023 involved two teenage boys who faced criminal charges after their prank caused evacuations and medical emergencies. These instances highlight the potential dangers associated with such pranks, particularly in school environments where students’ health can be put at risk.
Current Status
As of now, it remains unclear if Lewis has secured legal representation. He is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center pending further legal proceedings. The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the impact on the school community.
Background Context
There has been a concerning trend involving the use of foul-smelling sprays in schools, which create significant disruptions and health hazards. The behavior exhibited by Lewis demonstrates not only a disregard for the school environment but also for the well-being of the students and faculty members. School officials emphasize the need for accountability and preventive measures to ensure safe learning environments for all students.
In light of this event, school districts may re-evaluate their policies regarding pranks and vandalism to deter similar incidents in the future. Such steps could include educational programs to raise awareness about the consequences of these actions and stricter disciplinary measures for offenders.
FAQ Section
What charges is Alexander Lewis facing?
Alexander Lewis is facing charges of disturbing schools and malicious injury to property for allegedly using an offensive spray at West Florence High School.
What symptoms did students and staff experience?
Many students and staff reported experiencing headaches, nausea, dizziness, and some required medical attention for respiratory issues due to exposure to the spray.
What are the estimated costs related to this incident?
The estimated costs prompted by Lewis’s actions are around $55,000, which includes inspections and repairs to the affected air conditioning system in the school.
Where is Alexander Lewis currently being held?
Alexander Lewis is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center following his arrest.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused Individual | Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis (32 years old) |
| Charges | Disturbing schools, malicious injury to property |
| Location | West Florence High School, Florence, SC |
| Time Frame | August 25 – September 19 |
| Health Effects | Headaches, nausea, dizziness, respiratory issues |
| Estimated Costs | $55,000 |
| Similar Cases | Previous incidents including a case in Texas in 2023 involving teenage boys |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- NBC News
- ABC News
- WSOC TV
- NBC Philadelphia
- Fox 8
- Wikipedia: Prank
- Google Search: South Carolina school poop spray
- Google Scholar: foul-smelling sprays in schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: school pranks
- Google News: South Carolina teaching assistant
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
