More than a dozen individuals associated with Penn State University have been charged in connection with an alleged extensive cocaine distribution network. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that 14 people are facing charges related to the drug trafficking operation, which purportedly involved students and two off-campus fraternities.
According to the Attorney General's office, 13 of the defendants were Penn State University students during the periods of the alleged conduct in 2023 and 2024. The 14th defendant, identified as the father of one of the students, faces charges for tampering with evidence and obstructing the investigation.
Details of the Alleged Operation
In a Monday announcement, the Attorney General indicated that Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson were the alleged primary suppliers of the cocaine. They reportedly made regular trips to Philadelphia and New York to acquire substantial quantities of the illicit substance.
Investigators allege that members of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities were involved in cutting and packaging the cocaine inside their off-campus fraternity houses. The prepared drugs were then allegedly distributed to Penn State students.
Attorney General Sunday characterized the group as a sophisticated and lucrative enterprise.
"This was a coordinated and highly-profitable drug-trafficking crew revolving around two senior members of the fraternities, other fraternity brothers, and pledges," Attorney General Sunday stated. "In fact, according to the evidence uncovered, cutting and packaging cocaine was, for some pledges, an indoctrination into the fraternities."
Beyond the charges against alleged ringleaders Abbatiello and Robinson, additional individuals face serious accusations. Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat are charged with felony corrupt organizations, conspiracy, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity, and other related offenses. Robert Zanolla faces a felony charge of conspiracy, criminal use of a communication facility, and related misdemeanors.
Eight other individuals, described as