The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office has filed charges against 14 individuals connected to a substantial cocaine distribution network. The allegations suggest involvement by Penn State University students and two off-campus fraternities.
Details of the Allegations
Thirteen of those charged are believed to have been Penn State students at the time of the alleged offenses in 2023 and 2024. The fourteenth individual, a parent of one of the students, faces charges related to tampering with evidence.
Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson are named as primary drug suppliers. The pair allegedly traveled frequently to Philadelphia and New York to source large quantities of cocaine.
Fraternity Involvement
The Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities are accused of being involved in the processing and distribution of the cocaine. Pledges and members allegedly used their fraternity houses to cut and package the drugs for sale to students.
Additional Charges and Defendants
Along with Abbatiello and Robinson, Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat are charged with corrupt organizations and conspiracy offenses. Robert Zanolla faces conspiracy and communication-related charges.
Eight other individuals, described as of “student age,” are charged with misdemeanors for possession and drug paraphernalia. Those charged are Liam Smith, Michael Brogno, Kaden Howe, Connor Hurleigh, Seth Beardsley, Kyle Ridpath, Daniel Price, and Charles Wiseman.
University and Fraternity Responses
Penn State University has reacted to these criminal allegations by placing the Delta Upsilon fraternity under interim suspension. The administration acknowledges the gravity of the charges and expresses its intent to cooperate with law enforcement.
The university emphasizes its commitment to tackling criminal activities and enhancing student health and safety measures. Sigma Chi, identified as an unrecognized entity, remains beyond university oversight.
In response to these events, Delta Upsilon International Fraternity stated that individuals connected to the charges have been expelled, suspended, or have resigned.
The broader community awaits further developments as investigations proceed.