Marquette County Sheriff’s Office makes 2 arrests in armed home invasion

Jayce Ellsworth-Messa and Dominick Ziolek, both age 17 of Montello, were arrested after the Marquette County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the Town of Shields, for a report of a home invasion on Tuesday evening, January 3rd. 

Sheriff Joe Konrath reported that the 911 dispatch center received a call stating that two individuals forced entry into the residence, demanding items of value. The victim, who was alone at the time, was confronted by the individuals and sustained injuries as a result of the altercation. The two individuals were in possession of a handgun and other dangerous weapons which were used during the crime. Several items were taken from the residence. 

The suspects fled on foot and an immediate search of the area was conducted. As part of the investigation, two suspects were identified. One suspect was located at his residence and taken into custody. The second suspect was arrested a few hours later at a different residence. The handgun used during the incident was recovered at that time. 

Sheriff Konrath reported that although this incident was isolated, where the victim was known to the suspects, it is still very concerning due to the seriousness of this violent crime. The Marquette County Sheriff’s Office aims to protect all citizens of the community and to keep safety as our top priority. 

A criminal complaint has been filed by the Marquette County District Attorney’s Office and the two appeared in Marquette County Circuit Court on January 5th. Each received a cash bond of $10,000 and initial appearances were set for January 9th.

Both individuals are facing charges of: 

Burglary-Dwelling-Party To A Crime, Use of a Dangerous Weapon (Felony) 

Pointing a Firearm at Another (Misdemeanor) 

Criminal Damage to Property- Party To A Crime, Use of a Dangerous Weapon (Misdemeanor) 

Battery- Party To A Crime, Use of a Dangerous Weapon (Misdemeanor) 

Both defendants appeared in Marquette County Circuit Court for initial appearances on January 9th, at which time a status hearing was set for February 6th.

The Marquette County Sheriff’s Office strives to build better communication and transparency within our community. If you would like to report a crime you can call 911, the non-emergency number at 608-297-2115, or if you wish to remain anonymous you can call Marquette County Crime Stoppers at 800-297-8477(TIPS). 

If you would like to receive emergency notifications from the Marquette County Sheriff’s Office, you may sign up for RAVE alerts. The Sheriff’s Office uses RAVE alerts to send out mass notifications and emergency messages. You can sign up for this free service by clicking on the RAVE icon on the Marquette County website at www.co.marquette.wi.us.