Putnam County, TN – A bomb threat reported Sunday afternoon at the Putnam County Courthouse prompted a swift law enforcement response, temporarily raising concerns for public safety in Cookeville and surrounding areas.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the threat was received around 4:14 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, after Cookeville Police alerted deputies that a caller claimed bombs had been placed around the courthouse. The caller also allegedly stated that armed individuals were in the area and demanded $10,000.
Deputies and detectives immediately responded to secure both the Old Courthouse on Spring Street and the Putnam County Justice Center. Authorities conducted a thorough search of the properties, including areas at 300 and 421 East Spring Street. Officials reported no signs of forced entry or explosive devices at either location.
After the scene was cleared, investigators began tracing the phone number used to make the threat. According to officials, the same number has allegedly been linked to similar bomb threats reported in multiple states, including Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, and Iowa, within the past month.
Sheriff Eddie Farris said threats of mass violence in Putnam County are taken seriously, emphasizing that deputies acted quickly to ensure public safety and secure the area.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work with agencies in other jurisdictions to identify the individual responsible for the threats.
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