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By Jenna Sundel
News Reporter
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A man charged with murder won a Republican primary for sheriff in a rural Arkansas county on Tuesday.
Aaron Spencer defeated Lonoke County Sheriff John Staley in the primary, according to unofficial results posted by the Arkansas secretary of state.
Why It Matters
Spencer is accused of killing 67-year-old Michael Fosler in 2024. At the time, Fosler was out on bond after being charged with numerous sexual offenses against Spencer’s then-13-year-old daughter. Spencer is charged with second-degree murder, and he would not be able to serve as sheriff if he is convicted.
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Spencer has pleaded not guilty, and he is out on bond while awaiting trial. His attorneys have not denied that he shot Fosler but maintain that he acted lawfully to protect his child from a predator.
Spencer ran on a message of seeing failures within law enforcement. He said in a Facebook post last month that if he is elected, he would establish a dedicated team to combat sex crimes against children.
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What To Know
On the night of the shooting, Spencer woke up and found his daughter missing from her bedroom, according to court documents. He went searching for her in his truck and found her in the passenger seat of a vehicle Fosler was driving.
Spencer forced Fosler's vehicle off the road, and the two engaged in an altercation. Spencer then called 911 to report he had shot the man, records show.
Spencer won more than 53 percent of the vote with all precincts reporting, according to unofficial results. Staley, whose department arrested Spencer in 2024, conceded the loss.
What People Are Saying
Aaron Spencer said on Facebook on Tuesday: "Results look great so far, and we are very encouraged by what we’re seeing tonight! Thank you to all of the supporters who have worked tirelessly on this campaign, and to everyone who showed up to vote. We would not have made it this far without you."
Lonoke County Sheriff John Staley said on Facebook on Wednesday: "Congratulations to Mr. Spencer. Tonight the voters made their decision in the Republican Primary, and I respect the decision. Serving as your Sheriff for the past 13 years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. I've always tried to lead with integrity — to do what's right, not what's easy."
What Happens Next
Spencer was initially scheduled to go to trial in January, but it was delayed after the presiding judge was removed from the case. A new date has not yet been set.
He will face off against Democrat Brian Mitchell Sr. in November's general election in the heavily Republican county.
This article includes reporting by the Associated Press.
Update 3/4/26, 2:35 p.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.
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