Florence, South Carolina, September 27, 2025
News Summary
A 32-year-old teaching assistant at West Florence High School was arrested for using a foul-smelling spray that imitated fecal odor throughout the campus. The spray caused health issues among students and significant disruption in the learning environment. The school’s inspection and repairs have cost over $55,000, and the assistant faces serious legal charges, including disturbing schools and malicious injury to property. The community is awaiting his court appearance as investigations continue.
Florence, South Carolina – A 32-year-old teaching assistant at West Florence High School, Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, was arrested on September 19, 2023, for allegedly using a spray designed to imitate fecal odor throughout the school campus. The incidents took place over several weeks, from August 25 to September 19, causing significant disruption in the learning environment and resulting in students experiencing medical issues.
The spray, purchased online, produced a foul smell that permeated the school, leading to numerous complaints from students who reported symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and respiratory problems. The odor was so overwhelming that it caused discomfort among students and faculty alike, with some parents opting to keep their children home from school due to these adverse effects.
The school’s response to the crisis included inspections and repairs, which resulted in costs exceeding $55,000, particularly related to damage to the air conditioning system. The Florence County Sheriff’s Office has since confirmed that they are conducting an ongoing investigation into the startling incidents.
Lewis faces serious legal charges, including disturbing schools and malicious injury to property valued at more than $10,000. Following his arrest, he was taken to the Florence County Detention Center, where he remained until his release on September 22, 2023. Lewis is currently held on a bond of $1,090 and is scheduled to appear in court on October 15, 2023. Authorities indicated that further charges may arise as the investigation progresses.
Impact on School Environment
The use of the fecal odor spray led to a complete overhaul of the school’s atmosphere. Students reported a persistent gas-like odor that disrupted their daily activities and learning processes. The situation prompted immediate action from the school administration, highlighting the need for further investigations into safety protocols and student well-being within school environments.
Community Response
The incident has sparked concern among the community, especially among parents who have expressed dissatisfaction over the handling of the situation. Many parents have voiced their outrage regarding their children’s health issues caused by the spray and are seeking accountability and preventative measures to ensure such an occurrence does not happen again.
Background on the Events
This unsettling incident is part of a broader conversation about safety in schools and the responsibilities of school staff. The reaction from the school authorities, parents, and local officials underscores the importance of maintaining a secure and conducive environment for education.
The community is anxiously awaiting the upcoming court date, hoping for justice for those affected by the acts that disrupted the educational atmosphere at West Florence High School.
FAQ
What happened at West Florence High School?
Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, a teaching assistant, allegedly sprayed a fecal odor spray on multiple occasions, causing disruptions and health issues among students.
What symptoms did students experience?
Students reported experiencing nausea, headaches, and respiratory problems due to the foul smell resulting from the spray.
What legal charges does Lewis face?
He has been charged with disturbing schools and malicious injury to property valued at over $10,000.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | August 25 – September 19, 2023 |
| Charges Against Lewis | Disturbing schools, malicious injury to property |
| Costs Incurred by School | Over $55,000 |
| Court Appearance Date | October 15, 2023 |
| Health Issues Reported | Nausea, headaches, respiratory problems |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
West Florence High School Teaching Assistant Arrested for Using Foul Spray
Teaching Assistant Arrested for Using Fart Spray in Classroom
West Florence Boys Volleyball Team Achieves Triple Victory
Teaching Assistant Arrested for Using Fart Spray at School
Teaching Assistant Arrested for School Disturbance in Florence
Teaching Assistant Arrested for Disruption at High School
Teaching Assistant Charged for Foul-Smelling Spray Incident at SC School
Teaching Assistant Arrested for Spraying Foul Odor at West Florence High School
Teaching Assistant Arrested for Disturbing Florence High School
Tragic Three-Car Accident in Florence County
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.
