Judge Dismisses Murder Charge Against Aaron Spencer

A judge recently dismissed a murder charge against Aaron Spencer, the Republican nominee for Lonoke County sheriff. The charge was in connection with the shooting of a man accused of sexually assaulting Mr. Spencer’s daughter.

Judge Ralph Wilson Jr. stated that the charge was dismissed due to missing evidence and misconduct by law enforcement. Specifically, dashboard camera footage of the incident was lost, violating Mr. Spencer’s due process rights.

The Court finds that conduct by law enforcement was so egregious that dismissal of this case is warranted.

Mr. Spencer admitted to shooting Michael Fosler, the man charged with sexually assaulting his 13-year-old daughter. On October 8, 2024, Mr. Spencer discovered his daughter missing from her bedroom. He found her in a car with Mr. Fosler, who had been released on bond. According to Mr. Spencer, his daughter attempted to leave the car, but Mr. Fosler restrained her. Mr. Spencer then shot Mr. Fosler.

Spencer pleaded not guilty, claiming self-defense of his daughter. State prosecutors argued the act was premeditated and that Mr. Spencer should have contacted the police instead.