Fire chief in central Oklahoma city resigns

(Information in the following story is from: The Oklahoman, http://www.newsok.com)

EDMOND, Okla. (AP) – A fire chief in a central Oklahoma city has submitted his resignation.

The Oklahoman reported Friday the resignation comes during an internal investigation into what firefighters say was a hostile work environment, corruption and coercion within the department.

Edmond Fire Chief Jake Rhoades has been the city’s fire chief since November 2012.

Rhoades told the newspaper in an email his resignation comes after months of "anguish and frustration." He says quitting his job is in the best interest of his health and family.

His departure will be effective Monday.

City Manager Larry Stevens placed Rhoades on administrative leave with pay earlier this month, after firefighters had filed formal complaints and supported their claims with an audio tape.