By Staff Report
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a sexual battery case involving a minor following allegations reported on Friday, July 24.
After an investigation, probable cause was established, and arrest warrants were obtained for Michael Thomas Mekara, 39, of Chipley. Mekara is charged with sexual battery on a victim 12 years of age or older but less than 18 years of age; offender 18 years of age or older.
Investigators determined that Mekara faces the same charge through the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and also had active outstanding felony warrants in both Washington and Jackson counties.
Mekara was located in Baldwin County, Alabama, where he was taken into custody. He currently faces local Alabama charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. He remains held pending extradition on the Washington County and Jackson County warrants for sexual battery.