S.C. Teaching Assistant Arrested for Allegedly Releasing Fart Spray, Causing $55K Damage and Making Students 'Physically Sick' By Escher Walcott

A South Carolina teaching assistant has been arrested for allegedly releasing fart spray in the school building.

Alexander Lewis, 32, allegedly used the stink spray multiple times at West Florence High School in Florence between Aug. 25 and Sept. 19, creating “a foul odor” and causing “respiratory issues” for some students, Florence County Sheriff’s Office (FSCO) said in a news release on Facebook.

“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 children “required medical attention for respiratory issues.” The school also had to pay $55,000 in inspection and damage fees for their air conditioning system, as a result of the incident, per the release.

Lewis was arrested on charges of disturbing schools and malicious injury to property with a value of over $10,000 on Saturday, Sept. 20.

According to ABC 15 News, students reported smelling “a strong gas-like odor throughout the school,” which left them feeling nauseous, dizzy and suffering form headaches. Parents also reported their kids staying at home as a result of 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 bond of $1,090. He will appear in court on Oct. 15, per ABC 15 News.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible, authorities said.

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PEOPLE has reached out to West Florence High School for comment. but did not immediately receive a response.