Arkansas father accused of rapist in daughter’s death wins Republican nomination for sheriff

An Arkansas father awaiting trial on second-degree murder charges for allegedly shooting his teenage daughter’s alleged sex offender has won the Republican nomination for Lonoke County Sheriff. Aaron Spencer defeated incumbent Sheriff John Staley in Tuesday’s primary, winning more than 53 percent of the vote, according to unofficial results from the Arkansas Secretary of State, Fox News reported.Spencer allegedly shot Fosler in October 2024 after Fosler woke up to find his daughter missing from their home. He found Forsler’s daughter in his truck and forced the vehicle off the highway, where an argument ensued that led to a shootout. After Spencer allegedly shot Fosler, he called 911.Fosler was charged with “multiple sex crimes” against Spencer’s daughter before his death and was out on bail at the time of the shooting, court records show.Spencer, a military veteran and farmer, is being held on bail awaiting trial, which was initially scheduled for January. He pleads not guilty.Although Staley’s deputies arrested Spencer in 2024, Staley offered congratulations after the results were tallied.“Voters made a decision tonight in the Republican primary, and I respect that decision,” Staley wrote in a Facebook post.Spencer was scheduled to run against Democrat Brian Mitchell Sr. in November. If convicted, Spencer would be barred from serving as sheriff.“Through my own fight for justice, I have witnessed firsthand the failures of law enforcement and circuit courts. I refuse to stand by while others face the same failures,” Spencer said in a video announcing his campaign.“This campaign has nothing to do with me,” he added. “This is about every parent, every neighbor, every family who deserves to feel safe in their homes and communities. It’s restoring trust and letting neighbors know law enforcement is on their side and families know they won’t be left alone in their time of need.”