COOKEVILLE, T.N. — A standout athlete at Cookeville High School was arrested in an undercover human trafficking operation.
Nathaniel Stalnaker, 18, of Cookeville, has been charged with one count of patronizing prostitution, which is a class A felony.
Stalnaker recently broke the school track record for the 100m dash.
Stalnaker is accused of responding to an advertisement placed on backpage.com under the “Women Seeking Men” section.
Officials say two female TBI agents posed as girls offering sex on the site. The TBI agents reportedly identified themselves as being 14 to 17 years old.
Nine other men were arrested during the sting. Learn more about the operation HERE.
Putnam County’s Director Of Schools Jerry Boyd says Stalnaker will not compete in the State track meet after qualifying this past Saturday. Boyd says he made the decision along with the CHS coaching staff and school administration.
Officials are still working to determine if Stalnaker will be allowed to walk at graduation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.