Man Who Escaped Police On Floating Log Arrested In Woodstock

The Canton man who escaped police capture by floating on a log in the Etowah River has been arrested in Woodstock.

At around 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, agents with the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad (CMANS) and deputies with the Cherokee Sheriff's Office arrested Terry Raymond Spriggs, 42, at a home in Woodstock, sheriff's office spokesperson Lt. Jay Baker said in a press release.  

Spriggs was wanted on outstanding warrants for two counts of possession of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine and two counts of probation violation. Spriggs has also been charged by agents on a theft by receiving a stolen motorcycle charge, Baker added. 

CMANS agents approached and attempted to arrest Spriggs around 4:20 p.m. May 19 at a relative's home near Westview Street and Marietta Highway in Canton and the suspect took off on foot.

Spriggs crossed Marietta Highway and entered the Etowah River. 

Canton officers assisted CMANS agents in attempting to apprehend Spriggs, but the man attached himself to a log, refused to swim ashore and began floating down the river. 

Agents were able to follow Spriggs on foot down stream for about a quarter of a mile before they lost sight of him due to the thick brush and trees along the shore line of the river. 

CMANS agents tracked Spriggs to the Woodstock residence, and set up a perimeter while they waited on uniformed officers to assist in the arrest, Baker stated.

Spriggs had concealed himself in the home, which was occupied by a family with three children.

"Agents and deputies were able to get the family safely out of the home and then search the residence," Lt. Baker added.  

Spriggs was discovered hiding in a clothes closet covered with a blanket.

CMANS Commander Phil Price said he suspects Spriggs has some "relationship" with the family, but is unsure of its extent. 

"It appeared to be a friendly visit," he added.

Spriggs was transported to the Cherokee Adult Detention Center in Canton.