EATON COUNTY (WWJ) — A Mid-Michigan man who was arrested in a river as he fled Michigan State Police troopers last week has been charged.
Jesse Babcock of Holt was arraigned Monday on charges of concealed carry, resisting and obstructing police, reckless driving and open intoxicants in a vehicle.
Babcock, 32, was released from the hospital Sunday, two days after MSP troopers used a canoe to arrest him in the Thornapple River near Vermontville Township, about 25 miles southwest of Lansing.
Police received a 911 call around 2 a.m. Friday, reporting that a man, since identified as Babcock, had threatened to kill his ex-girlfriend and boyfriend. He was also believed to be intoxicated and suicidal at the time.
Shortly after troopers located the suspect in the area of Vermontville Highway and Bradley Road, he fled on foot into the Thornapple River, according to MSP.
A K9 unit was able to track Babcock through the swamp and river, while a drone unit found the suspect in the water. Using a canoe, troopers were able to take Babcock into custody.
He was taken to Sparrow Hospital for treatment of hypothermia, intoxication, and mental evaluation. He was eventually released Sunday and held in the Eaton County Jail. Bond was set at $5,000 at his arraignment and his next court date was scheduled for Feb. 5.
Authorities have not released any further details about the alleged threats made against his ex-girlfriend.