Family of AEP speaks out following Gallison Scandal

Mary Ellen DiMaio says she is still trying to wrap her head around what went down at the non–profit her dad, Leo DiMaio, founded decades ago.

"We’re very disappointed,” said DiMaio.

Multiple inconsistencies were discovered in the paperwork for the organization earlier this week after former State Rep. Ray Gallison abruptly resigned from office amid a brewing scandal involving a federal probe.

Several people are now claiming their names were fraudulently used on IRS forms and papers filed with the Secretary of State’s office.

Gallison is listed as the Assistant Director for Alternative Educational Programming which has received more than $2 million in legislative grants since 2003.

"My father would be mortified at the way he’s acted,” said DiMaio.

DiMaio says her dad died in 2014 having devoted his life to helping people.

The non–profit was created to assist minorities and those living in poverty to get an education.

In the midst of the Gallison scandal, DiMaio’s family is desperate to make sure Leo’s legacy is not forgotten.

"My father was very ill for the last 17 years of his life,” said DiMaio. "There were days where he could barely make it into that office but he went there to make sure that these young people were getting the advantage and the vision that he had for them."

DiMaio says her family has not spoken to Gallison since her father’s funeral.

She adds that the family has never received any payments since he died.

It’s not clear at this point if the fraud allegations are tied to the federal probe of Gallison.

Gallison has not been charged in connection with any crimes.

(C) WLNE 2016