The skeletal remains found in Halifax Friday are believed to be those of Jerry Dale Harrell, according to the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office.

Harrell, 38, was reported missing in January and, according to state Department of Correction records, is listed as an absconder from probation and parole. His past criminal record includes charges of assault on a female and assault and battery.

The sheriff’s office does not believe foul play was involved, said Detective Tyree Davis.

The remains were found after a woman who was walking her dog on Montfort Street reported the animal brought bones from the woods which were possibly human.

The sheriff’s office confirmed the bones were human remains and after a search located the rest of the remains.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations and a special team from East Carolina University came and assisted in processing the scene.DNA collected from the bones and Harrell’s family will help to confirm the identity, Davis said.