Mayor: City separating with Atlanta fire chief

ATLANTA —


Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed says the city is seperating from Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran after Cochran published a controversial book.

Atlanta Fire Rescue Department Chief Kelvin Cochran was suspended in November after Channel 2 Action News inquired about a faith-based book published by the fire chief and distributed to subordinates.

In the book based on Christian values, Cochran identifies himself as Atlanta's fire chief and says his first priority as chief is to run the department "to cultivate its culture to the glory of God."

He also has critical views on homosexuality, at one point equating it to bestiality.

City officials said Cochran violated city policy by publishing a book without permission.

Reed said Cochran continued to speak out during his suspension and put the city on shaky legal ground.

http://www.wsbtv.com/news/news/local/atlanta-fire-chief-who-wrote-controversial-book-pa/njg3F/