A Cookeville man faces felony charges following an incident at a local clothing store where he allegedly displayed a handgun after being asked for identification during a credit card transaction.

On Saturday, November 7, 2026, at about 8:55 PM, Putnam County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Garcia responded to a reported aggravated assault at Duncan’s Clothing, situated at 399 Jackson Street. According to investigators, an employee requested identification to verify a credit card purchase per store policy. The customer stated he lacked identification, lifted his shirt to reveal a black handgun, and told the employee, “I do have this.”

Store surveillance footage reviewed by deputies corroborated the employee’s report. Subsequent checks revealed that the suspect, identified as William Derek Rouse, is legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

On Sunday, November 8, 2026, authorities took Rouse into custody without incident. During the investigation, Rouse voluntarily surrendered eight additional firearms from his residence, comprising five rifles, one revolver, and two 9mm semi-automatic handguns.

“Our Deputies responded to a report involving one firearm and learned that the suspect had access to eight firearms in his home, despite being prohibited from possessing firearms,” said Sheriff Eddie Farris. “All eight were voluntarily surrendered as a result of this investigation.”