A traffic stop in Putnam County resulted in a host of drug charges after the suspect reportedly fled. On Sunday (3/1/2026), Putnam County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, assisted by Deputies, the TBI, and the Middle Tennessee Task Force, attempted a traffic stop on Shawn Patrick Gibson at the Frenchman’s Market and Deli on Burgess Falls Road in Cookeville. Gibson reportedly fled, intentionally ramming the vehicle of a Putnam County Detective and a Middle Tennessee Drug Task Force Agent. While trying to escape through a wooded area, Gibson drove off an embankment and struck a tree. He was taken into custody and Detectives discovered approximately 1.5 pounds of Methamphetamine, 3.35 ounces of Marijuana, and 15 Schedule IV pills. Detectives also seized $1,100 from Gibson, believed to be proceeds from drug sales.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office says Gibson has a lengthy criminal history, including prior felony drug charges, prior charges for felony evading law enforcement, and prior charges for aggravated assault. Gibson has been booked in over 20 times into PCSO Jail.
His bond was set at $518,000 with a March 4th court date. (Photo courtesy PCSO)
