Fourteen individuals, including Penn State University students and members of two off-campus fraternities, face charges in connection with an alleged large-scale cocaine distribution ring, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced Monday.
According to the Attorney General's office, 13 of the defendants were students at or around the time of the alleged conduct in 2023 and 2024. The 14th defendant, identified as the father of a student, is charged with tampering with evidence and hindering the investigation.
Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson are accused of serving as the main suppliers of cocaine for the operation. Investigators allege they made regular trips to Philadelphia and New York to acquire significant quantities of the drug. The Attorney General's office stated that members of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities were allegedly involved in cutting and packaging the cocaine within their fraternity houses, subsequently distributing it to other Penn State students.
Two additional defendants, Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat, are charged with felony corrupt organizations, conspiracy, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity, and related offenses. Robert Zanolla faces charges including felony conspiracy and criminal use of a communication facility, along with related misdemeanors.
Eight other individuals, described as "student-aged defendants," face misdemeanor charges for possession and paraphernalia. These include Liam Smith, Michael Brogno, Kaden Howe, Connor Hurleigh, Seth Beardsley, Kyle Ridpath, Daniel Price, and Charles Wiseman.
Attorney General Sunday stated that the drug-trafficking crew was coordinated and profitable, revolving around senior fraternity members, other brothers, and pledges. "In fact, according to the evidence uncovered, cutting and packaging cocaine was, for some pledges, an indoctrination into the fraternities," Sunday said.
Thomas Robinson's father, Paul Robinson, is accused of felony tampering and hindering apprehension for allegedly attempting to conceal evidence and obstruct the investigation.
Penn State University confirmed it had responded to the allegations, placing the Delta Upsilon fraternity on interim suspension while the university conducts its own investigation. The university also noted that Sigma Chi is not a recognized organization and operates outside of its support and oversight.
In a statement, Andrea Dowhower, vice president for Student Affairs at Penn State, expressed horror at the allegations, stating that criminal activity, including hazing, has no place at the institution. She added that the university will cooperate with law enforcement and continue to enhance its efforts around health, safety, and hazing education for all organizations.
Justin Kirk, Executive Director of Delta Upsilon International Fraternity, stated that individuals associated with Delta Upsilon involved in the alleged incidents have either been expelled, suspended, or resigned. The organization committed to continuing cooperation with the university's investigative efforts.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Sigma Chi fraternity for comment.