Andrew Shirvell Fired After Harassment Charges

Andrew Shirvell, the Michigan assistant state attorney general who made headlines for his criticism of openly gay University of Michigan student body President Chris Armstrong, has been fired.

Shirvell was fired in part for using state resources in his campaign against Armstrong, which included a blog in which he cast the student as a racist liar pushing a "radical homosexual agenda."

AnnArbor.com reports that Attorney General Mike Cox said in a statement Shirvell was let go for "conduct unbecoming a state employee, especially that of an assistant attorney general."

Cox added that an investigation showed that Shirvell "repeatedly violated office policies, engaged in borderline stalking behavior, and inappropriately used state resources." He had previously been suspended.

Shirvell defended his actions on television programs, arguing that he was exercising his free speech as a private citizen and not acting in an official capacity.

The investigation reportedly found that Shirvell showed up at Armstrong's home on three separate occasions, including once at 1:30 am, and harassed and tried to expose Armstrong's friends as gay. Additionally, Shirvell reportedly took some of his actions against Armstrong, including posting to his blog, during the workday. He was also accused of repeatedly lying to investigators.

Philip Thomas, Shirvell's attorney, said the firing "has a political aroma to me."

"I think my client is a victim of the liberal media piling on," he added.