A teaching assistant in Florence, South Carolina, was recently arrested after being accused of repeatedly deploying a "fart spray" within his classroom at West Florence High School. Alexander Lewis, 32, allegedly used an internet-acquired spray designed to mimic fecal odor on multiple occasions between August 25 and September 19, according to a news release from the Florence County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO).

The deployment of the foul-smelling spray caused significant disruption and health concerns. The FCSO reported that the odor created "respiratory issues" for students, with several requiring medical attention. Students also reported experiencing nausea, dizziness, and headaches due to the pervasive smell, which was described by some as a "strong gas-like odor throughout the school." Parents expressed concern, with one noting their child had been experiencing headaches for days and missed school due to the effects.

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Beyond the health impact, the incident also imposed a substantial financial burden on the school. Authorities revealed that West Florence High School incurred $55,000 in inspection and damage fees for its air conditioning system in the aftermath of the incidents. A student described teachers covering their noses and mouths, coughing because of the smell, and themselves feeling physically sick and lightheaded.

Lewis was arrested on September 20 and faces charges of disturbing schools and malicious injury to property with a value exceeding $10,000. The investigation into the matter is ongoing, and there is a possibility of additional charges. Following his arrest, Lewis was held at the Florence County Detention Center. He received a bond of $8,000 for the malicious injury to personal property charge, returnable to the general sessions court on November 19, and a bond of $1,090 for interfering with schools, returnable to Florence magistrates’ court on October 15.