A woman has stood by her husband, who is facing the possibility of life in prison, declaring him a hero for his actions in defending their family.
Aaron Spencer, aged 36, was arrested on a preliminary charge of first-degree murder after allegedly shooting a man he discovered with his missing 14-year-old daughter in a vehicle in Arkansas.
The deceased was Michael Fosler, 67, previously charged with rape and internet stalking of a child on July 11 of this year.
He was released on a $50,000 bond and awaited a court hearing set for December.
Aaron’s wife, Heather Spencer, 37, has openly supported her husband, asserting that their daughter had been victimized and raped by Fosler.
The incident occurred on October 8 when the couple was alerted by the unusual barking of their daughter’s dog, prompting them to check on her, only to find her missing.
They immediately contacted 911 to report their daughter as missing, and Aaron set out in his truck to locate her.
Aaron eventually encountered Fosler with his daughter, resulting in a chase.
The chase led to Fosler’s vehicle crashing, allowing Aaron to safely recover his daughter, but an alleged altercation occurred, leading to the shooting of Fosler in Lonoke County, Arkansas.
The Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office released a statement last week confirming the series of 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 charged with first-degree murder, a felony that could result in a life sentence.
Heather confirmed on a GiveSendGo donation page that she managed to post the $150,000 bond to bring Aaron home.
She has appealed for additional financial support to assemble a legal defense team.
In her post, she recounted the events and expressed frustration with 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.”
She concluded: “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.”