Suspect captured in Indiana following McLeansboro child abuse material investigation, home invasion

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

MCLEANSBORO, Ill., (KBSI) — A suspect sought in connection with a child sexual abuse material investigation and a violent home invasion in McLeansboro has been taken into custody in Indiana, authorities said.

The McLeansboro Police Department said Hamilton County 911 Communications was notified at about 9:20 a.m. Dec. 23, 2025, by the Indiana State Police that Michael J. Mezo, 63, was arrested in Corydon. Police said Mezo was found in possession of a stolen truck connected to another Hamilton County case that occurred shortly after the McLeansboro incidents.

Authorities said Mezo will undergo the extradition process and be returned to Hamilton County to face what police described as a lengthy and growing list of charges. Officials also thanked the public for providing numerous tips throughout the investigation.

Earlier, police announced they were seeking Mezo after a search warrant was conducted Dec. 11, 2025, at his residence in the 500 block of North Washington Street in McLeansboro as part of a child pornography investigation. Police said no arrest was made at that time due to the stage of the investigation, but additional evidence later led investigators to develop multiple charges related to possession of child sexual abuse material.

Police said that on Dec. 15, 2025, at about 6:40 a.m., Hamilton County dispatchers received a 911 call reporting an active home invasion on Broadway Street in McLeansboro. The caller reported that a man entered the home through the basement and attacked two senior citizens inside the residence. One victim was struck in the head with a brick and required medical attention. Police said the victim identified Mezo as the intruder.

Multiple attempts to locate Mezo were initially unsuccessful, prompting the issuance of a nationwide arrest warrant. Authorities said Mezo is expected to face multiple charges, including possession of child sexual abuse material, home invasion, aggravated battery of a senior citizen, and residential burglary.

Police cautioned the public not to approach Mezo, noting he should be considered armed and dangerous. Officials previously said he was known to panhandle in the Mount Vernon and Marion areas and had ties to the St. Louis and Kentucky regions.

Authorities emphasized that Mezo is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.