A judge in Arkansas has dismissed murder charges against Aaron Spencer, a sheriff candidate and Army veteran, accused of fatally shooting Michael Fosler, who allegedly sexually assaulted Spencer’s teenage daughter. The incident occurred in Lonoke County in October 2024.
Spencer initially faced charges of second-degree murder in the death of Fosler, aged 67. According to court records, Special Circuit Court Judge Ralph Wilson Jr. dismissed the charges, citing mishandling of evidence by law enforcement as the primary reason. The judge stated that the actions of law enforcement were egregious enough to warrant dismissal, which he described as an “extraordinary and extreme remedy” under the circumstances.
Prosecutors alleged that Spencer found Fosler alone with his daughter inside Fosler’s truck in the early hours of October 8, 2024. It was claimed that Spencer forced the vehicle off the road and then called 911 to report the shooting. The judge noted that the loss or destruction of an SD card containing potential evidence from Spencer’s truck impaired his ability to mount a defense and compromised his right to a fair trial.
Fosler faced charges of numerous sexual offenses against Spencer’s daughter and was out on bond when the shooting occurred. Spencer had admitted to shooting Fosler but pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.
This decision follows Spencer’s victory in the Republican primary for Lonoke County sheriff, during which he promised to reform the county’s law enforcement. Spencer emphasized his commitment to justice and highlighted failures in law enforcement and the court system that he has experienced.
The potential impact of the dismissal on Spencer’s candidacy for sheriff remains unclear. The Lonoke County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office, and Spencer’s defense team have not commented further.