South Carolina Teaching Assistant Arrested for Using ‘Fart Spray’ That Caused $55,000 in Damage
FLORENCE, S.C. — A teaching assistant in Florence has been arrested after deputies say he repeatedly sprayed a chemical product designed to mimic the smell of feces inside a local high school, causing illness and tens of thousands of dollars in damages.
The Florence County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, 32, a teaching assistant at West Florence High School.
Prank Turned Costly
Investigators said Lewis purchased the so-called “fart spray” online and used it multiple times between August 25 and September 19.
The repeated spraying sickened several students, who required medical attention for respiratory issues, and forced the school to spend over $55,000 on HVAC inspections and repairs.
Charges and Bond
Lewis has been charged with disturbing schools and malicious injury to property valued over $10,000.
He was initially held at the Florence County Detention Center but later released after posting a $1,090 surety bond.
Court records show Lewis is scheduled to appear in criminal and traffic court on October 15.
Investigation Ongoing
The sheriff’s office said the investigation is still underway, and additional charges may be possible as the case develops.
The incident has sparked outrage among parents and staff, who called the behavior reckless and harmful to both students’ health and the school’s resources.
Do you think pranks that result in illness and expensive damage should carry harsher penalties for educators? Share your opinion in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
