Christian policeman victimised over
opposition to gay pride event

A row between a Christian police constable and homosexual colleagues could cost taxpayers tens of thousands of pounds after the Norfolk officer objected to pro-gay messages.

Graham Cogman, a constable with 15 years experience, was disciplined because of his response to a circular email sent to officers in early 2005 which encouraged staff to wear a pink ribbon on their uniforms during 'Gay History Month'.

PC Cogman responded by sending a reply email to his fellow officers featuring biblical quotations about homosexuality being a sin. He objected again the following year when a similar email was again sent to officers.
He was subjected to a disciplinary tribunal and fined 13 days' pay.

A spokesman for Norfolk Police said that PC Cogman's behaviour "fell well below the standard which we expect. Whilst the force fully respects the officer has strong beliefs, it is only correct that he respects the beliefs and wishes of others," he said."The force will not tolerate any form of homophobic behaviour."

PC Cogman said that reconciling his religious beliefs with his job was becoming more difficult because the force's policy on homosexuality was contrary to his faith.

"The blatant support for homosexual rights in Norfolk Police makes being a Christian officer extremely difficult," he said."I am not undertaking this action lightly but I have to make a stand when things become so blatantly biased against me just because I hold a faith."

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Released on Wednesday 23rd July 2008

Source - www.dailytelegraph.co.uk