Arkansas Father Charged with Murder Runs for Sheriff

An Arkansas father, who is facing charges for allegedly murdering a 67-year-old man accused of assaulting his 14-year-old daughter, has unexpectedly announced his candidacy for sheriff in Lonoke County. He asserts that “the system failed” both him and his family.

Aaron Spencer, aged 37, revealed his intentions last week to run for the position. Interestingly, the Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office has been investigating a case related to Spencer from the previous year.

Spencer stated in a campaign video, “Through my own fight for justice, I have seen firsthand the failures of law enforcement and circuit courts.” He emphasized the need to rebuild trust within the community, calling for accountability and safety. In the video, he mentions, “Many of you know my story. I’m a father who acted to protect his daughter when the system failed.”

In addition to being a husband and a father, Spencer is a veteran from the 82nd Airborne Division as well as a contractor and farmer.

“This campaign is not about me,” he added. “It’s about every parent, every neighbor, every family who has the right to feel safe in their homes and communities.” He expressed his frustration with the current state of law enforcement and his determination to make changes.

Last October, Spencer was arrested in relation to the shooting death of Michael Vossler, who was allegedly found with Spencer’s daughter in a car. According to legal documents, Spencer had gone to check on his daughter, only to discover she was missing. In an affidavit, he referenced discovering a stuffed animal in her bed as a sign of her absence.

It was reported that on October 8, 2024, deputies were called about a missing teenager. They later learned that Spencer had located his daughter in Vossler’s vehicle. Following this, Spencer reportedly used his own vehicle to collide with Vossler’s truck, resulting in a confrontation that led to the shooting.

Spencer maintained he had “no choice” but to shoot Vossler. He told investigators that during the encounter, Vossler lunged at him with something in his hand. The affidavit describes how Spencer fired multiple shots until his gun was empty before engaging in a physical confrontation with Vossler.

Authorities declared Vossler dead at the scene. Reports indicate that Vossler had been previously charged with multiple sexual offenses against minors and was out on bail at the time of the incident.

Spencer’s family has described the environment as “tense,” emphasizing the trauma that led to the unfortunate events. His wife, Heather, has characterized Spencer as a “hero,” highlighting the suffering their daughter endured.

As of now, Spencer is charged with second-degree murder. He was released on bond and has pleaded not guilty. A pretrial hearing is set for December 17.

A petition supporting Spencer has gained over 361,000 signatures, voicing public sympathy toward his situation. Sheriff Jeff Staley of Lonoke County stated he would seek re-election and has been focusing on crime prevention since 2013.