A fugitive wanted in Indiana on multiple charges, including child molestation and rape, was captured in Picayune on April 8 following a multi-agency investigation.

Yonson Meza Argueta was wanted by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Indiana on five counts of molestation of a child, one count of rape, and one count of dissemination of matter harmful to minors (child pornography).

The Federal Bureau of Investigation contacted the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office after Argueta was believed to be in the area. A coordinated effort between the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office, Picayune Police Department, Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI led to Argueta’s arrest in Picayune.

According to investigators, Argueta was attempting to flee to the U.S./Mexico border to evade arrest. After being taken into custody, he was transported to the Forrest County Jail, awaiting extradition to Indiana.

In a statement, the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office praised the collaboration among law enforcement agencies, calling the arrest “a testament to the power of interagency cooperation in the pursuit of justice.”

“We extend our sincere thanks to all agencies involved for their dedication and assistance in taking a dangerous individual off the streets,” the statement said.