An Arkansas man facing murder charges has won the Republican nomination for county sheriff in central Arkansas, according to the Arkansas secretary of state's office.

Aaron Spencer, who is awaiting trial on murder charges, secured the GOP nomination despite his pending legal case. Spencer is accused of killing a man he alleged was abusing his daughter.

According to reports, the incident occurred in October 2024 when Spencer allegedly shot Michael Fosler after finding his missing daughter in Fosler's truck. Spencer has been charged with murder in connection with Fosler's death.

The Arkansas secretary of state's office confirmed Spencer's victory in the Republican primary for the sheriff's position. The unusual circumstances of a murder defendant winning a law enforcement nomination have drawn attention to the race.

Spencer will face trial on the murder charges while potentially serving as the Republican nominee for sheriff. The general election will determine whether he assumes the law enforcement role while his criminal case proceeds through the courts.