HARRELLSVILLE – A local man saw 2019 arrive while behind bars, arrested on New Year’s Eve for allegedly operating a dog fighting ring.

Hertford County Sheriff Dexter Hayes said 53-year-old John D. Askew of NC 45 South, Harrellsville, stands charged with 21 felony counts each of dog fighting and cruelty to animals.

Askew was arrested at his residence shortly before 11 a.m. on Dec. 31. He was jailed under a $50,000 secured bond and is scheduled to make his first appearance on Friday in Hertford County District Court.

There was no reference noted in the arrest report of any others involved in the alleged dog fighting operation.