An Arkansas man awaiting trial for murder has won the Republican nomination for sheriff in Lonoke County, running on a platform of holding law enforcement accountable. Aaron Spencer defeated incumbent Sheriff John Staley in Tuesday's primary election, securing over 53% of the vote, according to unofficial results from the Arkansas secretary of state.
Spencer is accused of killing Michael Fosler, 67, who was out on bond after being charged with sexual offences against Spencer's then 13-year-old daughter. Spencer's attorneys do not deny he shot Fosler but argue he acted within the law to protect his child. Spencer has pleaded not guilty and is out on bond while awaiting trial, which has been delayed after the presiding judge was removed from the case.
Court documents indicate that in October 2024, Spencer discovered his daughter missing from her bedroom and found her in a vehicle driven by Fosler. He forced the vehicle off the highway and, after an altercation, called 911 to report he had shot Fosler. Prosecutors allege Spencer planned the killing and could have called police instead.
Sheriff Staley, whose department arrested Spencer, conceded the loss, stating: 'Tonight the voters made their decision in the Republican Primary, and I respect the decision.' Spencer said his message of accountability resonated with voters, adding: 'This wasn't a campaign about me. It was about every family who called for help and got nothing.'
Spencer now faces Democrat Brian Mitchell Sr in November's general election in the heavily Republican county. If convicted, Spencer would be unable to serve as sheriff. His attorney, Erin Cassinelli, said the election result has no bearing on the case, asserting that Spencer 'did exactly what the law allows and exactly what any father would do.'
