Councilman Catching Heat For Posting Ad To Sell Friend's Gun On Facebook During Meeting
SAN BERNARDINO (CBSLA.com) — A San Bernardino politician is catching some heat for posting an ad to sell a friend's gun on Facebook during a City Council meeting.
The ad was posted Monday by San Bernardino Councilman Benito J. Barrios and reads in part: "A friend of mine is selling. Any takers?"
The ad goes on to list details about a pistol that's never been fired and the accessories that come with it. The price: $2,100.
The posting of the ad in the middle of the meeting prompted several responses.
One person said, "Why are you posting stuff like this while you are in a city counsel meeting that [is] being televise[d]," while another said, "They shouldn't be distracted by outside media."
CBS2/KCAL9's Tom Wait went to City Hall on Wednesday to get answers from Barrios.
"Councilman, can you explain why you were on Facebook during the meeting," asked Wait.
Barrios replied, "I will."
After taking off without comment, Barrios called Wait to defend his actions at the meeting. He claims the post was a one-time deal and that he is paying attention during meetings.
"It took 30 to 40 seconds to do what I did. ... It was in between presentations," he said over the phone.
And on using Facebook to sell a gun, Barrios said: "I know the perception is that it doesn't look very well at all. But um … right now, Tom, that's what I'm going to say and I'll release more to you."
Police say it's legal to advertise a gun, but rules about the actual sale must comply with state and federal law.
