The 24-year-old leader of a cocaine trafficking ring involving former Penn State University students and fraternity members surrendered to authorities on Tuesday. Agostino Abbatiello, a former senior member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, faces multiple charges, including cocaine possession with intent to deliver and conspiracy. A district judge denied bail during his arraignment.
Agostino Abbatiello, along with 13 other defendants, who were Penn State students during the alleged activities in 2023 and 2024, were charged on Monday. An investigation identified Abbatiello and Delta Upsilon senior fraternity member Thomas Robinson as the main suppliers in the operation. According to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office, the duo regularly traveled to Philadelphia and New York to acquire large amounts of cocaine, which were then prepared at Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternity houses for sale, primarily via Snapchat.
The operation reportedly generated hundreds of thousands of dollars. A statement from Delta Upsilon fraternity’s executive director, Justin Kirk, revealed the fraternity’s awareness of the charges and its response. Several members have been expelled, suspended, or have resigned. The fraternity is cooperating with the university on investigative measures.
In addition to charges against Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson, Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat face charges related to corrupt organizations, conspiracy, and dealing in proceeds from unlawful activities. Robert Zanolla is charged with conspiracy and criminal use of a communication facility. Thomas Robinson’s father, Paul Robinson, is accused of attempting to hinder the investigation and hide evidence, such as a safe containing drugs and cash.
Eight other young suspects face misdemeanor charges for possession and paraphernalia. According to Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday in a news conference, the drug operation involved entire fraternities, including leaders, members, and pledges. Evidence showed that cutting and packaging cocaine was part of certain pledges’ initiation processes.
Penn State has placed the Delta Upsilon fraternity on interim suspension following the charges. However, the university does not officially recognize the Sigma Chi fraternity.