Father of Slain Toledo Police Officer Faces Felony Charges for Alleged Misuse of Foundation Funds
TOLEDO, Ohio – Tony Dia, the father of slain Toledo Police Officer Anthony Dia, appeared in court on Monday after being charged with felony grand theft and telecommunications fraud. The charges stem from allegations of misusing funds connected to the Officer Anthony Dia Foundation, which was established in memory of his late son.
Dia, 54, had his first court appearance on March 24, where he was informed of the charges against him. He has not yet entered a plea, according to court records, but the judge set an own recognizance bond. Following his booking and fingerprinting at the Lucas County Jail, he will be released immediately.
The charges come after a months-long investigation led by the Ohio Attorney General’s office, which uncovered allegations that Dia misappropriated funds intended for the foundation. The Officer Anthony Dia Foundation was created to honor Officer Dia, who was killed in the line of duty on July 4, 2020. Prosecutors allege that between August 2022 and January 2024, Dia stole approximately $26,000 from the foundation.
The investigation also revealed claims from individuals who had not received refunds for raffle tickets they purchased, including those for a motorcycle raffle organized by the foundation. According to the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, the foundation’s funds were intended to benefit causes related to Officer Dia’s legacy, but were allegedly diverted for personal use.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost expressed his support for the ongoing legal proceedings, stating, “This is a tough case, stemming from a very difficult situation; however, the rule of law means the same rules for everyone. I commend Lucas County Prosecuting Attorney Julia Bates for seeking justice and restitution.”
Tony Dia has reportedly cooperated with authorities throughout the investigation. His next court appearance is scheduled for an arraignment on April 16.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the emotional nature of the allegations. Officer Anthony Dia’s death while serving the Toledo community left a lasting impact, and the misuse of funds intended to honor his memory has left many questioning how a tragedy could be further compounded by alleged criminal actions within the family’s foundation.
As the legal process continues, the community and the family of Officer Anthony Dia await answers, while authorities work to ensure that justice is served.
