Agostino Abbatiello, 24, the alleged ringleader of a cocaine trafficking operation at Penn State University, surrendered to authorities on Tuesday, prosecutors announced. Abbatiello surrendered along with two others following an investigation that uncovered the alleged drug ring operating through the off-campus fraternities Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi.
'We are pleased to report that the most significant members of this cocaine-trafficking organization are accounted for, and will have their fair process in court,' Attorney General Dave Sunday stated. 'These are very serious charges and the next steps will be preliminary hearings.'
Abbatiello faces multiple felony charges, including possession with intent to deliver and conspiracy. He and Thomas Robinson are accused of being at the "very top of the chain" in the alleged ring, reportedly making regular trips to Philadelphia and New York to acquire large quantities of cocaine. Evidence uncovered suggests the operation was highly profitable, with court documents alleging Abbatiello made tens of thousands of dollars. One co-defendant told investigators he purchased over $50,000 worth of cocaine from Abbatiello in a single transaction, using both cash and digital payments.
Prosecutors stated that for some pledges, cutting and packaging cocaine was part of their indoctrination into the fraternities. In total, 13 defendants were Penn State students at or around the time of the alleged conduct, which occurred in 2023 and 2024. Four of those charged are current students.
Those facing charges include Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat, who are charged with corrupt organizations, conspiracy, and dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity. Robert Zanolla faces charges including conspiracy and criminal use of a communication facility. Thomas Robinson's father, Paul Robinson, was charged with tampering and hindering apprehension for allegedly concealing evidence, including a safe containing drugs and cash.
Penn State University officials expressed concern over the allegations. Andrea Dowhower, vice president for Student Affairs, said the university is cooperating with law enforcement and will enhance efforts around health, safety, and hazing education for all organizations. The university announced that Delta Upsilon would be placed on interim suspension, while Sigma Chi, which operates outside the university and is not recognized by the institution, suspended three members charged in the investigation. Michael Church, Sigma Chi's executive director, called the allegations an "egregious violation of our values."