Fayetteville, N.C. — The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office has a hired its first full-time officer to investigate reports of animal cruelty.

Detective Jonathon Perkins, 30, will coordinate with a staff of civilian investigators at Cumberland Animal Services.

"The position was created to provide in-depth felony investigations and enhance public awareness about roadside puppy mills, dog and cock fighting and reports of neglect," says a release from the sheriff's office. "These crimes have become a concern for many citizens throughout the United States."

Perkins holds national certification as a animal-cruelty investigator and has worked as a sheriff's deputies for the past three years. He previously served in the U.S. Army.

The position will be paid by Animal Services.