An Arkansas man accused of killing a man who allegedly kidnapped and raped 14-year-old daughter in 2024 won a primary election for county sheriff.
Aaron Spencer reportedly shot Michael Fosler, 67, after discovering him in a car with his daughter. Despite being charged with Fosler’s second-degree murder, Spencer won the Republican nomination for Lonoke County sheriff, winning 53 percent of the vote, according to the Arkansas Advocate.
The girl’s mother said on Facebook that there was an active protective order against Fosler as he was accused of stalking and raping her daughter months before the October 2024 shooting. Further, Lonoke County police confirmed Fosler’s July 2024 arrest for internet stalking of a child and sexual assault.
The victim’s mother said they were unaware their daughter was back in contact with Fosler, who was free on bond.
Spencer’s trial was expected to begin in January, but it was delayed after the state supreme court removed the presiding judge. The state supreme court also dismissed that judge’s order, which limited the public’s access to the trial.
According to reports, Spencer cannot serve as sheriff if convicted of murder. A hearing to reschedule his trial is scheduled for this month.
Lonoke County Prosecuting Attorney Chuck Graham KATV that Spencer’s trial will begin in late April or late June.
“Now assuming one of those two dates we try it plenty of time, you know, he would be—he wouldn’t go any further if he’s convicted,” he said. “What’s out there in the public is not what happened. And they don’t know the facts of it. And that’s what we’ll lay out in our court case.”
For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast.
[Featured image: Lonoke County police]
