Murder charge dismissed against Arkansas man who said he shot daughter’s alleged sexual abuser A murder charge against Aaron Spencer has been dismissed by a judge due to the loss of critical dash-cam evidence and “egregious” conduct by law enforcement. Spencer, a sheriff candidate, had been accused of second-degree murder for shooting Michael Fosler, whom he alleged was sexually abusing his 13-year-old daughter. The judge found the circumstances warranted dismissal, allowing Spencer to continue his campaign for sheriff.

• A judge dismissed the murder charge against Aaron Spencer, who killed Michael Fosler.
• Spencer claimed he shot Fosler to protect his daughter, who he alleged was being sexually abused by Fosler.
• The dismissal was based on lost dash-cam footage and “egregious” conduct by law enforcement.
• Fosler faced 43 criminal charges, including sexual assault and child abuse imagery possession, at the time of his death.
• Spencer, an army veteran, had recently defeated the incumbent sheriff in the Republican primary and is running for the office in November.
• Spencer stated his message of accountability resonated with voters.