SMITHVILLE, TN - A joint investigation led by special agents from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s (TBI) Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, along with the Cookeville Police Department and the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, has resulted in the arrest of a Smithville man.

In January, authorities launched an investigation following a tip regarding child sexual abuse material linked to a Snapchat account. Special agents identified the account owner as 40-year-old Christopher Edward Williams of Big Hurricane Road, Smithville, who was employed in Cookeville.

On Thursday, Cookeville Police arrested Williams and charged him with Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. He was transported to the DeKalb County Jail, where he was booked on a $25,000 bond. Williams is scheduled to appear in court on March 6. 

Law enforcement officials encourage parents and guardians to educate themselves about cybercrime and child exploitation. Resources, including age-appropriate safety materials, are available at NetSmartz.org.

At last report, Williams was still being held at the Jail in DeKalb County, TN. 

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