Agostino Abbatiello, the alleged ringleader of a cocaine distribution network connected to Penn State fraternities, was described as a "loudmouth" and a "troublemaker" during his time at Chaminade High School, a $19,000-a-year all-boys Catholic institution in Mineola, New York. Sources who attended the school with Abbatiello, who graduated in 2020, told The Post that he was "always on the edge" and "always looking for attention."
Classmates recalled Abbatiello, now 24, as a "jokester" who would "make noises, calling people names and doing his best to make people laugh when the teacher turned their backs." They also noted that he associated with a group of about 10 boys who would frequent parks after school and attend house parties, where rumors of underage drinking and fake IDs were common.
These accounts contrast with the image of Chaminade High School, which prides itself on "forming young men of character and purpose" through faith, discipline, and community service. Abbatiello's alleged activities at Penn State, where he is accused of being known as "The Godfather," have reportedly shocked graduates of the competitive institution.
Lars Zeepvat, a fellow Penn State graduate and co-defendant in the federal investigation, testified in court that Abbatiello, a native of Long Island, purchased large quantities of drugs from a high school acquaintance identified only as "RJ." Zeepvat stated that Abbatiello's initial purchase was 100 grams, an amount that "people were enamored with how much it was." Abbatiello allegedly brought the cocaine back to the Penn State campus and distributed it within fraternity houses.
Abbatiello turned himself in to Pennsylvania police on August 18, after initially failing to do so when required by prosecutors. He was later released on a $250,000 secured bond. His lawyer, parents, and the school did not respond to requests for comment.
Coinciding with the ongoing investigation, Abbatiello's younger brother, Sebastiano Abbatiello, 20, also faced legal trouble. In late July, Sebastiano was charged with cocaine possession and other offenses after being found with two grams of cocaine and drug paraphernalia by Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission officers on a rental boat. Sebastiano, who also attended Penn State, was charged with misdemeanor counts of operating a boat under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 14.
Agostino Abbatiello is accused of leading the cocaine operation at Penn State, allegedly motivated by a desire to become "popular." Court testimony suggested he distributed free drugs at afterparties, spent lavishly on clothing, and purchased a "$5,000 bong" with his earnings. Abbatiello and his family reside in Westbury, New York. His father has owned a paving and construction business since 1984.