Cookeville Man Arrested on Slew of Drug Charges

Deputies with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office observed a vehicle traveling on I-40. The vehicle then got off the 317 exit ramp and pulled into the Exxon. The Deputies passed the Exxon and came back to find the vehicle the observed to be sitting in the parking lot with the hood up. The Deputies conducted an casual encounter with the vehicle and occupant. Deputies made contact with a male identified as Derek Rottman. Mr. Rottman appeared very nervous and was unable to stand still while talking to Deputies. Rottman stated that he lived in Cookeville and wanted to get home because he wife was sick. He stated he was in Maryville to see his Niece and her boyfriend, who Mr. Rottman could not identify or recall where they lived. After being asked general questions Derek’s story started changing. Deputies asked if they could search Mr. Rattman. After a search they found a red metal pill capsule with a small amount of unknown powder. Derek stated it weas probably pill residue his wife gave him. Mr. Rattman became upset and stated, “I don’t know why my wife gave me that”. Deputies called for  a K-9 Officer to do conducted a search. The K-9 alerted on his vehicle and Deputies began to search throughout the car. Deputies found a plant like substance that appeared to be crushed up. The Deputies also found a safe in the trunk of the vehicle. The safe was contained with a glass pipe, multiple baggies, medium sized bags, scales, and a large pink bag that contained a large amount of crystal like substance believed to be Methamphetamine. Also located in the safe was a small container which had a plastic bag with what appeared to be Crack Cocaine and a plastic bag with multiple red pills. A plastic bag was also found in the safe which contained small strips in foil which is believed to be LSD or Acid. A container with a plastic bag with Marijuana seeds was also found and inside of a plastic bag was a large shard like substance which is believed to be more Methamphetamine. A crushed up brown leafy substance which was identified as Mushrooms by Mr. Rottman. Deputies also found $2,313 that Derek had on his person. Derek Rattman was arrested and charged with 6 counts of Manufacturing, Delivery, and Sell of a Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Derek Rattman’s bond was set at $467,500.