An investigation into what state Rep. George Flaggs, D-Vicksburg, says is a false report of a cash donation by him to another candidate is in the hands of Attorney General Jim Hood.

Senate candidate Eric Rawlings, also a Democrat, listed $400 in cash as a donation from Flaggs on his most recent periodic report required by state law and submitted to the Secretary of State’s Office.

That office has no prosecutorial authority, so the matter was forwarded to Hood’s office.

Assistant Secretary of State for Elections Linda Dixon Rigsby sent a letter to Hood’s office outlining the crux of Flaggs’ request and acknowledging the AG’s office as the proper authority to investigate the matter.

&#8220As you will see, (Flaggs) specifically alleges that Mr. Rawlings, a candidate for Senate District 23, falsely listed a $400 contribution from Representative Flaggs on the report,” Rigsby wrote.

Flaggs remained adamant and outraged by the report Wednesday. &#8220He’s playing some kind of game,” Flaggs said. &#8220I just want to make it clear I didn’t give any money.”

Rawlings has avoided answering a direct question about the report, on which Flaggs’ first and last names were both misspelled. He said Flaggs pledged initial support of Rawlings when he filed to seek the seat being vacated by state Sen. Mike Chaney, a Republican.

Flaggs, a five-term incumbent, said he has a longstanding policy of not donating to others’ campaigns when he has ballot opposition.

Rawlings is unopposed for the Democratic nomination for the Senate seat and Flaggs is unopposed for Democratic nomination for a return to the House.

In the general election on Nov. 6, Rawlings will face the winner of the Republican nomination – Rep. Chester Masterson, attorney W. Briggs Hopson III or retired state trooper James &#8220Buddy” Terrell.

In the general election, Flaggs will face businessman and minister Rick McAlister, who is unopposed for the Republican nomination.

In 2001 and 2005, Rawlings, operator of an Internet-based business, ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic nod for mayor.

The contribution was listed on periodic campaign reports sent this month to the Elections Division of the Secretary of State’s Office. Under Mississippi law, all contributions more than $200 must be reported to the Secretary of State on forms submitted four times during the election year.