Andrew Ricks performed song with death metal band Vital Remains in Sanford, Florida, an act chief said ‘erodes the thin fibers of trust’ in police

This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

A Florida police officer has been fired after singing a song titled Let the Killing Begin with a death metal band – while on duty and in 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 said 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 on 13 November.

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.