Father accused of killing daughter’s alleged rapist announces sheriff candidacy
Aaron Spencer has vowed that if elected, law enforcement in Arkansas will once more champion families.
A former US military service member has declared his intention to campaign for sheriff in an Arkansas county, even as he faces murder charges for allegedly killing a man accused of sexually assaulting his daughter.
Aaron Spencer, aged 37, is accused of fatally shooting Michael Fosler, 67, in October 2024. This occurred after Spencer reportedly found Fosler in a vehicle with his 14-year-old daughter. At the time of the event, Fosler had been charged with several sexual offenses involving the veteran’s child but was free on bail.
According to court documents, Spencer informed police that he “was compelled” to fire his weapon because Fosler “moved aggressively towards him” after Spencer instructed him to exit the truck.
On Friday, Spencer, a candidate for sheriff of Lonoke County, posted a video on Facebook wherein he characterized himself as a “father who took action to safeguard his daughter after the system proved inadequate.”
“My personal pursuit of justice has granted me direct insight into the shortcomings of both law enforcement and our circuit court. I will not remain passive while others encounter similar deficiencies,” he stated.
The 82nd Airborne Division veteran asserted that his bid for sheriff “is not centered on me; it is dedicated to every parent, every neighbor, and every family who merits a sense of security within their homes and neighborhoods.”
“It is about re-establishing confidence, so neighbors are assured that law enforcement supports them, and families understand they won’t be abandoned when assistance is required,” he further remarked.
Within three days, the video amassed over 8,000 likes, and numerous commenters expressed their backing for Spencer’s campaign.
The election for Lonoke County sheriff is slated for November of the following year. Jeff Staley, the incumbent for over ten years, has declared his intention to run for re-election.
Spencer’s trial for second-degree murder charges is scheduled to commence on January 26, 2026.