Posey County – Indiana State Police initiated a criminal investigation on June 19th after receiving information that a 55 year-old Illinois man allegedly had sexual relations with a female that was under the age of 16.
During the investigation, Indiana State Police Detective Wes Kuykendall revealed Jonathan Mericle, 55, of Mt. Vernon, IL, made contact with the female through a dating website. After texting and sharing pictures, they met on June 14th at an undisclosed location in Mt. Vernon, Indiana, and allegedly had sexual relations.
After reviewing the investigation, the Posey County Prosecutor’s Office issued a felony warrant for Mericle’s arrest. This evening at approximately 5:00 p.m., Mericle was arrested at his residence without incident by Mt. Vernon, IL, Police Department. He is currently being held at the Jefferson County Jail in Illinois.
 Arrested and Charges:
- Jonathan E. Mericle, 55, Mt. Vernon, Illinois
- Sexual Misconduct with a Minor, Level 4 Felony
- Child Solicitation, Level 4 Felony
