Story perspectives

Spencer Wins Sheriff Primary Amid Murder Charge Controversy

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Aaron Spencer won the Lonoke County sheriff Republican primary with about 54% of the vote, defeating incumbent Sheriff John Staley.
Spencer faces a second-degree murder charge for the shooting of Michael Fosler, who was accused of sexually assaulting Spencer's daughter.
He positions his campaign on accountability in law enforcement, pledges to support sexual assault survivors, and his trial has been delayed.
Staley conceded the race, citing his decade of service.

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Story summary

Aaron Spencer won the Lonoke County sheriff Republican primary with about 54% of the vote, defeating incumbent Sheriff John Staley.
Spencer faces a second-degree murder charge for the shooting of Michael Fosler, who was accused of sexually assaulting Spencer's daughter.
He positions his campaign on accountability in law enforcement, pledges to support sexual assault survivors, and his trial has been delayed.
Staley conceded the race, citing his decade of service.