On Monday, Pennsylvania prosecutors cited a drug operation involving 14 individuals running from two fraternity houses, allegedly distributing cocaine to fellow students over approximately two years.
The charges were announced by Attorney General Dave alongside the State University Police Department. His office noted that
Thirteen defendants were students at Penn State during the 2023 and 2024 alleged activities, while the others, who are the fathers of students, face charges for tampering with evidence and obstructing the investigation. Later reports confirmed that at least four of those charged were active students.
According to the attorney general’s office, Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson were key suppliers for this group, traveling to Philadelphia and New York to bring in significant amounts of cocaine. Members and pledges of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities reportedly cut and packaged drugs at two residences before selling them to peers.
Attorney General Dave announced charges against 14 people Sunday in connection with a cocaine trafficking operation that involved primarily college students and two fraternities at Penn State University.
“This is a very serious criminal act.
There was nothing junior-like or child-like about him… pic.twitter.com/8XilFt8gPQ
— Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday (@PAAttorneyGen) August 17, 2026
“This operation was sophisticated and highly lucrative, centered around two fraternity leaders, other members, and a pledge,” said Sunday in a statement. “Evidence suggests that for some pledges, learning to cut and package cocaine was part of their initiation into the fraternity.”
Investigators initiated “Operation Drugs Unlimited” in September 2024, utilizing confidential informants to gather evidence, as reported by StateCollege.com. This effort involved two statewide grand juries examining the findings.
Sunday refrained from commenting on whether hazing charges would proceed. Reports from the Pennsylvania Capital Star highlighted uncertainty on that matter.
Abbatiello, Robinson, Mohamed Flabi, and Lars Zeepvat face serious allegations, including corrupt organization, conspiracy, and profiting from illegal activities, according to the Attorney General’s Office. Robert Zanora has been charged with felony conspiracy and misuse of communication facilities. The remaining eight individuals are facing misdemeanor charges, while student Paul Robinson’s father has been accused of concealing a safe that contained drugs and cash.
Penn State has suspended Delta Upsilon and indicated Sigma Chi is not operating with university approval, according to WJAC. Andrea Dauer, vice president for student affairs, expressed dismay over the serious allegations against current and former students. “Hazing and other criminal activities will not be tolerated in our facilities. We will assist law enforcement as needed,” she stated.
