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Officer Fired After Singing On Duty With Death Metal Band

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SANFORD (CBSMiami/AP) — A Florida officer was fired after singing a song titled "Let the Killing Begin" while on duty, in his uniform.

The Orlando Sentinel reports that Sanford Police Officer Andrew Ricks had previously notified the city he would leave his job Friday.

But Police Chief Cecil B. Smith relieved him of his duties Wednesday. Smith says police received video showing Ricks on duty and in uniform while singing "Let the Killing Begin" — a song referencing the crucifixion of Christ — with Vital Remains at a Sanford venue Nov. 13th.

In a statement Thursday, Smith said the incident "erodes the thin fibers of trust" between police and the community.

Ricks joined the department in 2010. He declined to comment to the newspaper.

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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