Cocaine Trafficking Ring Involving Former Penn State Students Uncovered

The leader of a cocaine trafficking operation linked to former Penn State University students and fraternity members has surrendered to law enforcement. Agostino Abbatiello, 24, a former member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, faces charges of cocaine possession with intent to deliver and conspiracy. Bail was denied by a district judge during his arraignment.

Abbatiello and 13 others, who were students at or associated with Penn State during the alleged activities in 2023 and 2024, were charged recently. An investigation revealed that Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson, a senior member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity, were identified as main suppliers. Authorities noted that they frequently traveled to Philadelphia and New York to acquire significant amounts of cocaine, which were processed and packaged at the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternity houses for sale to students, primarily using Snapchat. The operation reportedly generated substantial revenue.

Delta Upsilon fraternity’s executive director, Justin Kirk, acknowledged awareness of the accusations and stated that members involved have been expelled, suspended, or resigned. The fraternity is cooperating with the university during ongoing investigations.

The charges against Abbatiello, Robinson, and others include corrupt organizations, conspiracy, and dealing in illicit proceeds. Robert Zanolla faces charges related to conspiracy and using a communication facility for criminal purposes. Additionally, Paul Robinson, Thomas Robinson’s father, is accused of obstructing the investigation and attempting to conceal evidence, including a secure container with drugs and cash. Other suspects, primarily student-aged, face misdemeanor charges.

The Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday described the operation as a coordinated and profitable enterprise involving fraternities. Evidence suggests that cutting and packaging cocaine served as initiation tasks for some pledges. Penn State announced the interim suspension of the Delta Upsilon fraternity following the charges, while the Sigma Chi fraternity remains unrecognized by the university.