I don't know why this story caught my eye. Maybe it's that bigots don't pay attention to warning signs that they're behavior is just not going to be tolerated anymore.
A British police officer who sent emails to other officers condemning homosexuality and calling for gays to seek the help of a controversial American Christian group that claims to "cure" gays has been fired for misconduct.
Constable Graham Cogman, 49, accused the Norfolk police of promoting gay rights over religious beliefs. The emails contained biblical quotes and in one mailing said "love the sinner hate the deed" after calling homosexuality "sinful."
I mean honestly, can you imagine having to work with this guy? He's in your office so you feel obligated to open his e-mails lest, if hell froze over, his e-mail actually FOR ONCE was business related.
I think we all have friends who feel the need to forward every youtube link, wingnut rant or conspiracy theory they happen to come across to their entire contact list. This man ranks up there with that elusive "Prince from Nigeria", Viagra ads and webcam hookup requests.
Grab some popcorn, the details will amuse you.
Another email espoused the so-called "ex-gay" movement and said there was scientific evidence homosexuality was a matter of choice that could be cured. As evidence, he cited a U.S. group that has been discredited by both the American Psychiatric Association and the American Psychological Association.
Cogman used police department computers to send the emails, and began his campaign two years ago after the force’s gay liaison unit circulated an email encouraging staff to wear a pink ribbon on uniforms during Gay History Month.
Cogman was ordered to stop sending "offensive mailings" using police computers. But the following year, he stepped up his campaign after the liaison unit asked officers to wear a rainbow ribbon during gay pride.
What part of this is being not appropriate for work did he not understand? It is very clear that his workplace was attempting to create a very inclusive and affirming environment for LGBT people. Did he not get that memo?
He also was accused of victimizing a gay liaison officer.
An internal police tribunal this week found Cogman guilty of failing to comply with a lawful order over the use of police computers and with failing to treat a colleague with respect and tolerance.
"This officer’s behavior fell well below what we expect of our people. We require an absolute commitment from all our staff to treat colleagues with politeness, tolerance and respect, regardless of their beliefs, race, age, gender or sexual orientation."
3 cheers for another wingnut taken out of a seat of power and influence. Hip Hip, HOORAY!