have (someone or something) in tow
1. To be accompanied by someone or something. I can't believe Joyce had all eight kids in tow when she came into the office today.
2. To pull or drag something. They have the plane in tow and will bring it back to the hangar.
have someone or something in tow
Fig. to lead, pull, or tow someone or something around. Mrs. Smith has her son by the hand and in tow. That car has a boat in tow.