The wife of a man potentially facing life in prison has called him a hero, and says his actions were in protection of his family.
Aaron Spencer, 36, was initially arrested on a preliminary charge of first-degree murder for allegedly shooting and killing a man he found in a vehicle with his missing 14-year-old daughter, in Arkansas.
The man shot was 67-year-old Michael Fosler, who was previously charged and booked with rape and internet stalking of a child on July 11 earlier this year.
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He was released on a $50,000 bond, with a court hearing set for December.
Aaron’s wife, 37-year-old Heather Spencer, has defended her husband, and says she stands by him, saying their daughter had been targeted, groomed and raped by Fosler.
The shooting occurred on October 8 when the couple awoke to their daughter’s dog barking, something they considered unusual.
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When they went to check on her, they found, to their horror, that she was missing.
They immediately called 911 and reported their 14-year-old missing, while Aaron got into his truck and began searching for her.
Aarron eventually found Fosler with his daughter in his vehicle, and a chase ensued.
Fosler’s car reportedly crashed, and Aaron was able to rescue his daughter unharmed, but was allegedly attacked, leading him to shoot the 67-year-old in Lonoke County, Arkansas.
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The Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office released a statement last week corroborating the events.
The statement read: “A confrontation between the two adult males ensued, which resulted in a shooting. Deputies immediately initiated an investigation. Michael Fosler was pronounced dead at the scene, and Aaron Spencer was taken into custody.”
Aaron was preliminary charged with murder in the first degree, a felony charge that can carry a maximum term of life in prison.
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Heather confirmed, on a GiveSendGo donation page, that she has been able to bring her husband home, after paying the $150,000 bond.
She has also asked for further financial support to get together a legal team.
Writing on the page, she outlined the events that took place, and insisted she and her partner had been failed by the justice system.
She wrote: “We let the justice system do its job. The monster who hurt our child was charged quickly, but released even faster on a $50k bond. He was awaiting court in December for several felonies in relation to what he did to our child.”
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She closed by stating: “I’m starting this campaign with a goal of $50k but I understand now it will likely cost much more.
“My husband is a combat veteran, who has always protected his country and family. I have no doubt our child would have not come home if my husband hadn’t found her. Please help us keep him home with us where he belongs. Any donation is appreciated, but we will also take all the prayers we can get.”
Gerrard Kaonga