Cookeville, TN – Beginning in January 2025, the Cookeville Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit in conjunction with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s ICAC Unit, launched an investigation into the online distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) originating from Putnam County.

The investigation identified a suspect utilizing peer-to-peer file sharing software to upload illegal content. Working diligently to track the activity, investigators with the Cookeville Police Department ICAC Unit were able to isolate the source to a residence in Baxter, Tennessee.
In coordination with the 13th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, and with the assistance of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, a search warrant was executed at the Baxter residence. Multiple electronic devices were seized and submitted for forensic analysis.
A comprehensive digital forensic examination revealed more than 50 files confirmed to contain child sexual abuse material. The devices were determined to belong to Joseph Patton Hite III.

The case was presented to the Putnam County Grand Jury, resulting in an indictment for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor (Over 50 Images). On May 15, 2025, Mr. Hite was taken into custody and served with the indictment. He received a $200,000 bond.

This investigation underscores the ongoing collaboration between local and state ICAC partners and highlights the critical role of digital forensic techniques in identifying and prosecuting individuals who exploit children online. The Cookeville Police Department remains committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community and will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to bring offenders to justice.