SANFORD, Fla. – The central Florida police chief who was strongly criticized for his agency's initial investigation of Trayvon Martin's slaying was fired Wednesday, city officials said.

Sanford City Manager Norton Bonaparte said in a statement that he relieved Chief Bill Lee of duty because the manager said he "determined the Police Chief needs to have the trust and respect of the elected officials and the confidence of the entire community."

"We need to move forward with a police chief that all the citizens of Sanford can support. I have come to this decision in light of the escalating divisiveness that has taken hold of the city," Bonaparte said.