September 24, 2025

Teaching Assistant Arrested for Disturbing School Environment

Florence, SC, September 24, 2025

News Summary

In Florence, SC, a 32-year-old teaching assistant was arrested for allegedly spraying a foul-smelling product at West Florence High School, causing respiratory issues among students and over $55,000 in damages. The incidents spanned from late August to mid-September. Following the arrest, the school district reported significant health concerns, prompting a thorough investigation. The product used, designed to mimic fecal odor, highlights growing safety concerns in educational environments as discussions arise regarding regulations on such items.

Florence, SC – A 32-year-old teaching assistant has been arrested for allegedly spraying a foul-smelling product at West Florence High School, leading to health issues among students and extensive damage to school property. Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis was taken into custody on Friday by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office and is now facing charges of disturbing schools and malicious injury to property.

The incidents took place multiple times between August 25 and September 19. During this period, students reportedly experienced respiratory issues due to exposure to the spray, necessitating medical attention. The situation escalated to the point where the school had to deal with significant disruptions, prompting a thorough investigation by authorities.

As a direct result of Lewis’s actions, the Florence School District has incurred over $55,000 in repairs to the air-conditioning system, which was damaged by the spray. The product allegedly used in these incidents is designed to mimic the smell of fecal matter and has become popular as a prank item on social media platforms. It is readily available for purchase online, raising concerns about its impact in school environments.

Lewis was held at the Florence County Detention Center following his arrest but was released on September 20. At this time, details regarding whether he has obtained legal representation remain unclear. The Florence County Sheriff’s Office announced these developments in a recent news release.

This incident in South Carolina mirrors a similar case from earlier in 2023 when two teenage boys in Texas faced criminal charges due to a prank involving fart spray at a high school. That episode also resulted in student evacuations and individuals requiring medical care. These events raise significant concerns about the use of such products in educational institutions and the potential health risks they pose.

The use of products that imitate unpleasant odors is becoming increasingly popular among young people as a source of entertainment; however, incidents like these highlight the serious repercussions such actions can have in communal environments like schools. The legal ramifications and health issues stemming from this behavior are prompting discussions among educators and parents about regulation and prevention in the future.

As investigations continue, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office is expected to pursue further inquiries into the exact circumstances surrounding Lewis’s actions and the potential ramifications involved.

FAQ

What happened at West Florence High School?

A teaching assistant sprayed a product designed to imitate fecal odor, causing respiratory issues among students and damaging school property.

Who was arrested in connection with the incident?

Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, a 32-year-old teaching assistant, was arrested by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office.

What charges has Lewis faced?

Lewis has been charged with disturbing schools and malicious injury to property.

How much damage was caused by the spraying?

The Florence School District reported over $55,000 in repairs to the air-conditioning system due to the spray.

When did the incidents occur?

The incidents took place multiple times between August 25 and September 19.

What health issues did students experience?

Students experienced respiratory problems, which required medical attention.

What is the product used in the incidents?

The product used is designed to imitate fecal odor and has gained popularity as a prank item on social media.

Has Lewis been released?

Yes, Lewis was released from the Florence County Detention Center on September 20.

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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.

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