A judge has dismissed a charge against Aaron Spencer, the Republican nominee for Lonoke County sheriff. The charge involved the killing of a man accused of abusing Spencer’s daughter.
Judge Ralph Wilson Jr. cited a lack of evidence and misconduct by law enforcement as reasons for dismissal. The key evidence, dashboard camera footage, was lost, violating Spencer’s rights.
“The Court finds that conduct by law enforcement was so egregious that dismissal of this case is warranted,” the judge wrote.
Spencer had acknowledged shooting Michael Fosler. Fosler faced charges of sexually assaulting Spencer’s 13-year-old daughter. The incident occurred shortly after these charges were filed.
On October 8, 2024, Spencer discovered his daughter missing from home. While searching, he found her with Fosler, who was out on bond. Spencer reported that Fosler restrained his daughter as she attempted to leave the car, prompting Spencer to shoot Fosler.
Spencer pleaded not guilty, asserting he acted to protect his daughter. State prosecutors contended the killing was deliberate, suggesting Spencer should have contacted the police instead.