MAN ARRESTED AFTER DISRUPTING AND SHOUTING THREATS DURING CHURCH IN PUTNAM COUNTY
WKRN reports that a disturbing incident occurred at the Samaria Church of Christ in Cookeville when 36-year-old Ty Cross interrupted a Sunday service by approaching the pulpit, questioning the congregation’s faith, and later shouting threats from off-camera, including warnings to “cut y’all down to size” after accusing them of praising the devil.
Church members remained calm as security escorted Cross out without incident, and deputies quickly located and arrested the unarmed man nearby. During questioning, Cross expressed hatred toward Christians, animosity toward Black people, and admitted to significant mental health issues, according to Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris, who commended the congregation’s composure and announced continued security for the church.
Cross, originally from Antioch but recently staying with parents nearby following a prior altercation, faces charges of disrupting a meeting or procession and civil rights intimidation, and is held in the Putnam County Jail on a high bond.
