Local blogger faces perjury charges

SALISBURY, MD – (AP) A Delmar blogger known for his squabbles with Salisbury officials has been charged with perjury related to a Pittsville land deal.

Police say 46-year-old Joseph Albero stated in documents pertaining to the land deal that he was a Maryland resident. But voting records indicate Albero has been registered to vote in Delaware since 2005.

Albero says he's a "controversial blogger" with a target on his back, but everything will come out fine in the end. On his site, sbynews.blogspot.com, Albero follows Lower Shore happenings and is frequently critical of Salisbury and other public officials.

Earlier this month, a Worcester County judge ruled that Albero is not protected by a state law shielding news reporters from defamation lawsuits. Salisbury mayor and police chief have filed defamation suits against Albero.