WASHINGTON COUNTY, Fla. (WDNews) — According to a Washington County Sheriff’s Office press release and multiple media reports, a Chipley man wanted on felony warrants in two Florida counties has been arrested in Alabama.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said it was notified on Friday, July 24, of allegations involving a possible sexual offense against a minor. Following an investigation, authorities said probable cause was established, and arrest warrants were obtained for Michael Thomas Mekara, 39, of Chipley, Florida, charging him with sexual battery on a victim 12 years of age or older but less than 18 years of age by an offender 18 years of age or older.
Investigators also determined Mekara is facing the same charge through the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities said he also had active felony warrants from both Washington and Jackson counties.
According to the sheriff’s office, Mekara was located in Baldwin County, Alabama, where he was taken into custody. He is currently facing Alabama charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said Mekara is being held pending extradition on the Washington County and Jackson County warrants for the Florida sexual battery charges.
