Daley Won¿t Back Fire Commissioner

Chicago - Mayor Daley is refusing to give Fire Commissioner John Brooks a vote of confidence.

A payroll auditor in the Chicago Fire Department has accused Brooks of threatening to have her laid off after she rejected his sexual advances.

Brooks admits he called the woman, but says he has never sexually harassed anyone in his life. He told the Sun-Times he doesn't have to proposition women because he's gifted and "blessed" and they come to him.

Brooks is now on what he calls an extended vacation.

“What happened is, John Brooks stepped aside due to the serious allegations, and they will be thoroughly investigated. These are serious, and it's appropriate that he step aside,” Daley said.

An outside agency will be appointed to investigate the claims against Brooks.

It is not clear when or if Brooks will return to work.