(Photo credit: McLeansboro PD Facebook page)
The McLeansboro Police Department, in coordination with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 63-year-old Michael J. Mezo, who is wanted on multiple charges including possession of child sexual abuse material, home invasion, aggravated battery of a senior citizen, and residential burglary. Authorities warn that Mezo should be considered armed and dangerous.
The investigation began on December 11, 2025, when officers executed a search warrant at Mezo’s residence on North Washington Street as part of a child pornography investigation. While no arrest was made at the time, further investigation led to multiple charges related to the possession of child sexual assault material. On December 15, 2025, at approximately 6:40 a.m., police responded to a 911 call reporting a home invasion on Broadway Street in McLeansboro. The suspect allegedly entered the home through the basement and assaulted two senior citizens, striking the male resident in the head with a brick and causing injuries that required medical attention. The victim identified Mezo as the attacker, but attempts to locate him have so far been unsuccessful.
Mezo is described as a white male, 63 years old, 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing 150 pounds, with gray or white hair and hazel eyes. He is usually seen wearing eyeglasses. Authorities note that Mezo is known to panhandle in the Mt. Vernon and Marion areas and may have fled the immediate region. He also has connections to St. Louis and Kentucky.
A nationwide warrant has been issued for Mezo’s arrest. Police urge the public not to approach him if seen, but instead to contact law enforcement immediately.