Father accused of murdering daughter’s alleged abuser wins election | World | News
A man awaiting trial for second-degree murder has been nominated for county sheriff in central Arkansas. Aaron Spencer won the Republican primary for Lonoke County sheriff.
Spencer received 53.5% of the vote in Tuesday’s primary race for sheriff, defeating incumbent John Staley, who received 26.5%. Spencer, 37, will face the winner of the Democratic primary in November’s election. However, reports suggest that Spencer will likely be tried before then.
Spencer faces a second-degree murder charge in the October 2024 fatal shooting that allegedly found 67-year-old Michael Fosler with his teenage daughter.
Court documents show Fosler was accused of sexually assaulting Spencer’s 14-year-old daughter and was out on bail at the time of the shooting. Times reports.
Spencer pleaded not guilty, and her lawyers reportedly claimed she shot Fosler to protect her daughter from her alleged abuser.
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Prosecutors say his “understandable anger” did not give him the legal right to kill Fosler, according to reports.
To talk CNN Last month, Spencer said he could not speak in detail about the ongoing criminal case, but told the broadcaster: “I did what any good father would do, I simply saved and protected his child, which will certainly show in our strong legal defence.”
He also said he decided to run for Lonoke County sheriff to protect victims of child sexual abuse, CNN reported.
Reacting to his primary victory, Spencer said: “Lonoke County sent a clear message last night and we are just getting started.
“I am running to restore the credibility and integrity of the Sheriff’s Office, and the people of this county have shown they want the same.
“Let’s get the job done together and build a safer, stronger Lonoke County. If you’ll be with us toward November, I’d be grateful for your support.”
According to reports, Spencer’s trial was scheduled to begin in January but was postponed. A new date has not been determined at this time.
If elected and found guilty, he will not be allowed to serve as sheriff.
