Caddo Sheriff Steve Prator said a letter mailed to Caddo residents soliciting funds on behalf of the Louisiana Sheriff's Honorary Membership Program should not have included his name or endorsement.

The letter, which appears to be a personal plea for donations that will benefit Caddo Parish projects, began appearing in mailboxes this week. It includes Prator's name in a bold heading across the top of the page and his signature, which was provided to the LSHMP years ago and was used in the 2009 solicitation without the Sheriff's permission.

Those conducting the fundraiser have acknowledged that the signature and letterhead were in error and instead should have included the committee chairman's information. A clarification and apology letter will be issued this week.

Prator said while the LSHMP is a legitimate program, its fundraising efforts are conducted by paid solicitors, and citizens should decide for themselves whether they would like to donate. Contributions go to the LSHMP and not directly to the Caddo Sheriff's Office.