Barrow sheriff says Facebook posting is above board

WINDER - A North Georgia sheriff who used his department's Facebook page to tell constituents he's seeking re-election insists the posting doesn't violate Georgia campaign ethics laws.

The recent posting by Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith touted his re-election plans and alerted supporters to a Feb. 3 campaign reception.

Georgia law forbids public officials from using government funds or equipment in political campaigns.

Attorney Elisabeth Murray-Obertein of the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission says it would be illegal for sheriffs to use their departments' official websites for campaign announcements.

But Facebook pages are free. Murray-Obertein says her agency lacks a rule on social networking sites in campaigns.