CENTRAL — A local nonprofit tied to the East Baton Rouge Mayor-president Sid Edwards gave an illegal campaign donation to a candidate for Central police chief.

Campaign finance reports show Central City Autism Awareness Inc., a 501c3, donated $1,000 to candidate Larry Walters in September. 

By law, 501c3 organizations cannot make campaign donations. Penalties can include fines or the loss of tax-exempt status.

Deborah Dougherty, the organization's president, and the woman who made the donation, said she was unaware this kind of donation was illegal. 

Reached by phone Friday, Larry Walters said he had already refunded the money.

Edwards is listed as the group's treasurer on the Secretary of State's website.

However, Edwards told WBRZ he did not know he was even part of the organization, let alone listed as treasurer.

Edwards says he was not aware of the donation and has not made an endorsement in that race.