This browser does not support the Video element.
Ride along: How Sandy Springs police save lives on the Chattahoochee
Officers say drownings were a common issue before they started patrolling the water around the cliff. Now, they report no drownings.
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. - As temperatures rise and more people come to the Chattahoochee River, Sandy Springs police are stepping up patrols to keep visitors safe.
Crews say they're trying to stop emergencies before they start.
What they're saying:
Officers like Sgt. Andrew Rausch and Officer Dustin Meyerhoff say they’re not just enforcing laws, they’re saving lives.
"So we’re looking for any disorderly people out here and any safety violations," said Sgt. Rausch.
Sandy Springs police patrols the Chattahoochee River on June 28, 2025.
"You might be a D1 swimmer, and still people out here underestimate the power of mother nature," Officer Meyerhoff added from behind the wheel of the patrol boat.
One of the patrol’s most watched spots is a large cliff often used to jump into the river below. But the cliff is private property, and it’s dangerous.
"And we’ll trespass them if they are there," said Rausch.
The officers say the area was once a hotspot for drownings, until patrols began 3 years ago.
"A couple drownings specifically where we’re going now to the jumping rock. Since we started, we haven’t had any drownings in this area of the river," said Rausch.
During FOX 5’s visit, two people were spotted on the cliffside.
Two people on a privately owned cliff in the Chattahoochee River on June 28, 2025.
"Need y’all to get down! Appreciate it. It’s private property, and they don’t want y’all up there," Rausch called out.
"We’ll hang out till you get down safely," he added.
Officers say drownings were a common issue before they started patrolling the water around the cliff. Now, they report no drownings.
"So to know that you’re out here making a difference and you’re able to possibly prevent a drowning, that’s what matters," Meyerhoff added.
But cliffs aren’t the only concern. Life jacket violations are among the most common issues these officers see.
Kayakers in the Chattahoochee River on June 28, 2025.
Georgia law requires anyone under 13 to wear a life jacket at all times while on the water.
"Ma’am, how old is she? 10? She’s got to wear her life jacket," Rausch said as he reminded a family on paddleboards.
What's next:
The Sandy Springs River Patrol Unit will remain on the water all summer long. Officers stress that anyone over the age of 13 should keep a life jacket within arm’s reach, and anyone younger should keep it on at all times.
The Source: Information for this article came from a ride along with Sandy Springs Police as they patrolled the Chattahoochee River on June 28, 2025. FOX 5's Eric Mock rode along with the officers as they performed their normal duties.