14 Charged After Cocaine Ring Allegedly Operated Through Fraternity Houses

Authorities say a cocaine trafficking operation used off-campus fraternity houses to cut, package and sell drugs primarily to Penn State students. Fourteen people have now been charged, including current and former students and one suspect’s father.

On August 17, 2026, Pennsylvania authorities announced charges against 14 people accused in a cocaine trafficking investigation tied to two off-campus fraternity houses in State College, Pennsylvania.

According to investigators, the alleged operation ran during 2023 and 2024 and involved cocaine being transported from Philadelphia and New York to State College.

Authorities said the cocaine was cut, packaged, and sold primarily to Penn State students.

Investigators identified 24-year-old Agostino Abbatiello, of Westbury, New York, and 23-year-old Thomas Robinson, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the alleged leaders of the operation.

Abbatiello was described as a senior member of Sigma Chi, while Robinson was described as a senior member of Delta Upsilon.

According to court documents, the investigation began in September 2024 after State College police developed confidential informants who made controlled purchases of cocaine from a source associated with the two fraternities.

Investigators said Robinson allegedly sold cocaine from the Delta Upsilon fraternity house. After his arrest, Robinson allegedly told police that Abbatiello was his cocaine source.

Court documents allege Robinson bought cocaine from Abbatiello on multiple occasions, including a 500-gram purchase for $18,000 and kilogram-level purchases for approximately $22,000.

Investigators also alleged that fraternity brothers and pledges helped cut and package cocaine into smaller bags for distribution.

Authorities said Abbatiello, Robinson, Mohammed Huraibi, and Lars Zeepvat were charged with felony corrupt organizations, conspiracy, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity, and related offenses.

Robert Zanolla was charged with felony conspiracy, criminal use of a communication facility, and related misdemeanors.

Eight other current or former students were charged with misdemeanor drug possession and paraphernalia counts.

Authorities said the only non-student charged was 59-year-old Paul Robinson, Thomas Robinson’s father, who is accused of helping conceal evidence by hiding drugs and cash in a safe.

Penn State University said Delta Upsilon was placed on interim suspension. The university also said Sigma Chi is not a recognized organization and operates outside of Penn State’s support and oversight.

The charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.