Dogfighting charges are now lodged and a third person has been arrested stemming from the service of a search warrant last week on Stack Powell Road.

Detective J. Sealey of the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office said more arrests are expected in the case and it is possible more agencies, including federal, may be called in to assist in the continued investigation.

Elton Gary

Sealey said in a news release Elton Gary, 44, of Roanoke Rapids, is the latest to be arrested in the case.

His wife, Erica, and son, Zhaqwaun, were charged last week on marijuana related charges after 66 pot plants were found on the premises during the dogfighting investigation.

All three now face charges stemming from the operation of an alleged dogfighting ring on the property. Authorities continue to investigate to determine whether the Garys were the alleged ringleaders of the dogfighting.

The family faces two counts each of felony dogfighting.

Elton Gary was also charged with manufacturing marijuana, felony possession of marijuana, maintaining a vehicle, dwelling or place for controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was given a $30,000 bond and is awaiting a May 18 court appearance. Gary’s son and wife were given $15,000 bonds and have May 15 court dates.

It remains unclear how long dogfighting allegedly occurred at the residence, Sealey said. “It would be true to say this is not the first go around.”

Sealey said thus far no dogs have had to be euthanized. “The dogs we have seen showed evidence of old dogfighting injuries. None we seized were in a current fight. None of the injuries were fresh.”

There was a large crowd of people gathered at Stack Powell Road when officers arrived, Sealey said. Many fled at the sight of law enforcement. “We either got there as a fight was going on or in between.”