US teacher arrested after using 'poop spray' in South Carolina high school

A 32-year-old teaching assistant was arrested in South Carolina, U.S. on Sep. 20, 2025.

In a Facebook news release, the Florence County Sheriff's Office said that Alexander Lewis, who teaches at West Florence High School in Florence County, had allegedly used a spray "designed to imitate faecal odour" between Aug. 25 and Sep. 19.

His actions had allegedly caused students to fall ill and also damaged the school's air conditioning system.

According to the statement, Lewis had allegedly repeatedly used the spray, which mimics the smell of faeces, inside the school.

Authorities said the spray is believed to be obtained from the Internet, adding that his alleged actions had led to "a disruption of the school".

Some students reportedly required medical treatment for respiratory issues, while the school incurred over US$55,000 (S$70,596) in costs for inspections and damage to its air-conditioning system.

Investigations are ongoing

Lewis, whose full name is Alexander Paul Robertson Lewis, was arrested by local authorities on Sep. 19 and was held in custody at the Florence County Detention Centre.

According to USA Today, an employee from the detention centre said that he was later released on Sep. 20.

Local authorities confirmed that Lewis has been charged with disturbing schools and causing malicious injury to property valued at US$10,000 or more.

Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have stated that additional charges may be filed.

Top photos via Florence County Sheriff's Office - South Carolina & West Florence High School/Facebook