An Arkansas judge has dismissed murder charges against Aaron Spencer, a sheriff candidate and Army veteran, accused of fatally shooting Michael Fosler, who allegedly assaulted his teenage daughter.

Spencer faced second-degree murder charges for the October 2024 shooting in Lonoke County. Special Circuit Court Judge Ralph Wilson Jr. dropped the charges, citing law enforcement’s mishandling of evidence.

Prosecutors alleged that Spencer found Fosler alone with his daughter in Fosler’s truck. Spencer reportedly forced the truck off the road and called 911 to report the shooting.

The judge remarked, “Based on the totality of the circumstances and the unique facts, the Court finds that conduct by law enforcement was so egregious that dismissal of this case is warranted.”

The defense argued that police lost an SD card that may have contained critical footage, impairing Spencer’s ability to defend himself. The judge ruled the loss affected Spencer’s right to a fair trial.

Fosler, previously charged with sexual offenses against Spencer’s daughter, was out on bond when the shooting occurred.

In the Republican primary for Lonoke County sheriff, Spencer defeated the incumbent. He pledged to reform local law enforcement, citing personal experiences with the justice system.

Spencer admitted to the shooting but pleaded not guilty to the charges. The case was scheduled for trial in June.

The impact of the case dismissal on Spencer’s candidacy is still unclear. Fox News Digital sought comments from the Lonoke County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Sheriff’s Office, and Spencer’s defense team.