A teaching assistant in South Carolina has been arrested for allegedly releasing fart spray inside a school.
Alexander Lewis, 32, is accused of using the stink spray multiple times at West Florence High School in Florence between Aug. 25 and Sept. 19. According to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) news release on Facebook, the spray created “a foul odor” and caused “respiratory issues” for some students.
“Investigators have arrested a Florence man alleged to have been responsible for creating a foul odor at a Florence High School,” FCSO said. “Lewis is alleged to have sprayed an internet-acquired spray designed to imitate fecal odor at the school on multiple occasions and over time, resulting in a disruption of the school.”
Authorities reported that some students “required medical attention for respiratory issues.” The school also incurred $55,000 in inspection and damage fees for its air conditioning system as a result of the incident, according to the release.
Lewis was arrested on Saturday, Sept. 20, on charges of disturbing schools and malicious injury to property valued at over $10,000.
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According to ABC 15 News, students described a “strong gas-like odor throughout the school” that left them feeling nauseous, dizzy, and suffering from headaches. Parents also reported that some children stayed home due to the effects of the spray.
“Every time I go to my second block class, I walk up the stairwell and immediately, teachers are covering their noses and their mouths, coughing because of the smell,” one student told the outlet. “I got physically sick the other day because of the smell. I feel like I’m going to pass out because I get so lightheaded and so dizzy.”
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“My son says it’s been about three days now and it’s causing him to have headaches,” a parent told ABC 15 News. “It’s concerning, especially when it’s affecting my child’s health.”
Lewis is being held at the Florence County Detention Center on a $1,090 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 15, according to ABC 15 News.
Authorities said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible
