Pennsylvania Charges 14 in Penn State Cocaine Distribution Network Tied to Fraternity Hazing

Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced Monday that 14 individuals face charges in an alleged cocaine trafficking operation involving Penn State University students and members of two off-campus fraternities. The investigation centers on a distribution network that operated during 2023 and 2024, with thirteen defendants identified as Penn State students at the time of the alleged activity. The fourteenth defendant, identified as the father of a student, faces charges of tampering with evidence and hindering the investigation.

Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson are identified as the primary suppliers in the alleged drug ring, with investigators stating the two made regular trips to Philadelphia and New York to acquire large quantities of cocaine. Members of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities allegedly processed the drug inside their off-campus houses, cutting and packaging it before distribution to Penn State students, according to law enforcement officials.

In addition to charges against Abbatiello and Robinson, Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat face felony charges including corrupt organizations, conspiracy, and dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity. Robert Zanolla is charged with felony conspiracy and criminal use of a communication facility. Eight additional defendants identified as student-aged individuals—Liam Smith, Michael Brogno, Kaden Howe, Connor Hurleigh, Seth Beardsley, Kyle Ridpath, Daniel Price, and Charles Wiseman—face misdemeanor charges for possession and paraphernalia.

Attorney General Sunday characterized the operation as a coordinated and highly profitable venture built around two senior fraternity members, other fraternity brothers, and pledges. Evidence suggests that for some pledges, the cutting and packaging of cocaine served as an indoctrination ritual into the fraternities, investigators stated.

Thomas Robinson’s father, Paul Robinson, is charged with felony tampering and hindering apprehension for allegedly concealing evidence and obstructing the investigation. Penn State University confirmed it placed the Delta Upsilon fraternity on interim suspension pending its own investigation and noted that Sigma Chi operates as an unrecognized organization outside university oversight.

Andrea Dowhower, Penn State’s vice president for Student Affairs, said the university is “horrified by these serious allegations” and emphasized that criminal activity and hazing have no place at the institution. The university pledged to cooperate with law enforcement and enhance educational efforts around health, safety, and hazing prevention for all student organizations.

Delta Upsilon International Fraternity stated that the individuals involved have either been expelled, suspended, or resigned from the organization. The fraternity said it was previously aware of the alleged incidents and pledged continued cooperation with the university’s investigative efforts.