Agostino Abbatiello, identified by authorities as a primary figure in a cocaine trafficking network operating near Penn State University, surrendered to authorities on Tuesday. The surrender occurred after he failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing on Monday, according to a report published August 18.
Authorities have charged Abbatiello, 24, alongside 13 other individuals, including current and former Penn State students, in connection with a drug operation that allegedly functioned between 2023 and 2024. Investigators claim the network used two off-campus fraternity houses to prepare and distribute cocaine. The drugs were reportedly sourced from Philadelphia and New York and were processed in the Sigma Chi and Delta Upsilon fraternity houses.
According to judicial documents, Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson were the primary suppliers for the network. Abbatiello, a former accounting student with a perfect academic record, was ordered to remain held without bail on charges including conspiracy and possession of drugs with intent to distribute.
Investigators stated that fraternity members and pledges were utilized as labor to cut and package the cocaine. Some pledges were allegedly forced to perform these tasks as part of their initiation process. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday described the operation as a high-level narcotics organization and stated the conduct was serious and not trivial.
The investigation has also implicated Paul Robinson, the father of Thomas Robinson, who faces charges of obstruction of justice, tampering with evidence, and concealment. Prosecutors allege Paul Robinson attempted to hide evidence, including a safe containing cash and drugs.
Other individuals facing charges related to the operation include Mohammed Hurabi, Lars Zeepvat, and Robert Zanolla. Additionally, eight college-aged individuals—Liam Smith, Michael Brogno, Kaden Howe, Connor Hurleigh, Seth Beardsley, Kyle Ridpath, Daniel Price, and Charles Wiseman—face charges for drug possession and paraphernalia.
In response to the allegations, Penn State has temporarily suspended the Delta Upsilon fraternity and opened disciplinary proceedings. The university noted that Sigma Chi is not a recognized organization on campus and operates outside university supervision. Sigma Chi has suspended all chapter activities at Penn State while determining if the accused members acted individually or as part of an organized chapter activity.
