A death row inmate in Tennessee without access to the Internet is somehow managing to communicate with the outside world through Facebook, amassing nearly 300 friends in the process.

Nikolas Johnson, who was convicted of killing a police officer nearly three years ago, signed up for a Facebook account in August 2009, WJHL-TV in Johnson City reported. It appears Johnson got outside help to set up the account.

Since then, pictures and messages have been uploaded to Johnson's page, some of which seem to come directly from Johnson.

One message posted last month said, "Love you all!!!"

Another said, "Just want to let you all know in my Facebook family...All your emails and comments are keeping me strong! Thank you!"

A Tennessee Department of Corrections spokeswoman said death row inmates are not allowed to use the Internet, and that someone else is controlling Johnson's page on his behalf.

"We are seeing a number of inmates who have either attorneys or friends in the free world who are accessing social media on their behalf," said Dorinda Carter. "Although they can't do it, they are still getting messages out there."

Officials said Johnson isn't breaking any rules by having a Facebook page.