West Florence, South Carolina, September 23, 2025
News Summary
A teaching assistant at West Florence High School was arrested after allegedly using a foul-smelling spray, known as ‘poop spray,’ which caused respiratory issues among students. The incidents took place during a short period, leading to significant disruption and costing the school over $55,000 in repairs and inspections. Lewis faces charges for disturbing schools and malicious injury to property, highlighting concerns over student safety in educational environments.
West Florence, South Carolina – Teaching Assistant Arrested for Spraying “Poop Spray” at High School
A 32-year-old teaching assistant at West Florence High School, Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, has been arrested following allegations that he repeatedly used a foul-smelling spray designed to imitate fecal odor, commonly referred to as “poop spray.” The use of this spray resulted in significant disruption in the school environment, with multiple students experiencing respiratory issues.
The incidents reportedly occurred several times between August 25 and September 19, 2025. Lewis is said to have acquired the spray online, and its use prompted a response from the school administration, which led to an extensive investigation into the matter.
As a result of the spray’s deployment, West Florence High School incurred over $55,000 in expenses related to inspection and damage to its air conditioning system. The air quality in the building was severely compromised, forcing multiple students to seek medical attention for respiratory problems. Following the series of incidents, Lewis was charged with disturbing schools and malicious injury to property.
Lewis was arrested by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office on September 19, 2025, and was subsequently taken to the Florence County Detention Center. He was released the following day, on September 20, 2025. The investigation into this matter remains ongoing, and authorities have indicated that additional charges may be forthcoming as new evidence surfaces.
The district, Florence 1 Schools, has not responded to requests for comment regarding Lewis’ arrest and the incidents that took place at the high school. The nature of this situation raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of students in educational environments.
Background on the Incident
This troubling incident highlights a need for vigilance in schools regarding ensuring a safe learning environment for students. The use of unconventional and harmful substances in educational settings poses potential risks not only to student health but also to the integrity of school property. Following the incidents, the school district has likely pledged to implement measures to prevent future occurrences and enhance student safety.
Summary of Events
- Incident Period: August 25 – September 19, 2025
- Arrest Date: September 19, 2025
- Charges Filed: Disturbing schools, malicious injury to property
- Medical Attention: Multiple students with respiratory issues
- Financial Impact: Over $55,000 in inspection and repair costs
Conclusion
The arrest of Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis marks a questionable chapter in the educational history of West Florence High School. The necessity for further investigation and potential additional charges underscores the seriousness of the matter, with implications for school safety and student welfare moving forward.
FAQ
What is “poop spray”?
“Poop spray” refers to a type of aerosol spray designed to imitate the odor of feces. It is often used as a prank but can lead to health issues when inhaled in enclosed spaces.
Why was Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis arrested?
Lewis was arrested for using “poop spray” in a school environment, which caused significant disruption and health issues for students.
What charges has Lewis faced?
Lewis is facing charges of disturbing schools and malicious injury to property.
What impact did the incidents have on the school?
The incidents led to multiple students requiring medical attention and resulted in over $55,000 in costs for school inspections and damages.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources

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.