In Rhea County, Robert Lee Hodge was arrested and charged with 10 counts of sexual battery following an investigation by the Rhea County Sheriff’s Department that began in June 2025, according to a report by the Rhea Herald News. The charges stem from multiple instances of sexual assault against a young girl, described as an acquaintance of Hodge’s family, occurring between 2022 and 2024.

According to Investigator Rocky Potter, the allegations were supported by forensic interviews with both Hodge and the victim, who reported non-consensual assaults. The evidence was presented to the 12th Judicial Assistant District Attorney, leading to indictments by the Rhea County Grand Jury. Hodge was booked into the Rhea County Jail with a bond set at $40,000, which he has since paid to secure his release.