Fourteen individuals have been charged in connection with an alleged cocaine distribution operation involving students at Penn State University and two off-campus fraternities. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced the charges on August 17, 2026. Among those charged, 13 are current or former Penn State students, while the 14th is a parent of one of the students, facing charges of tampering with evidence and hindering the investigation.
The Attorney General's office identified Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson as the main suppliers of cocaine, reportedly making regular trips to Philadelphia and New York to acquire large quantities of the drug. Members of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities are accused of cutting and packaging the cocaine in their fraternity houses and distributing it to other Penn State students.
In addition to Abbatiello and Robinson, two other individuals, Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat, face charges related to corrupt organizations and conspiracy. Robert Zanolla is charged with felony conspiracy and related misdemeanors. Eight additional defendants, all of whom are of student age, face misdemeanor charges for possession and related offenses.
At least four of the individuals charged are current students at Penn State. The university has placed the Delta Upsilon fraternity on interim suspension while it investigates the allegations. Sigma Chi is noted as not being a recognized organization by the university.
In a statement, Penn State expressed concern over the allegations, emphasizing that criminal activity, including hazing, is unacceptable and that the university will cooperate with law enforcement. Delta Upsilon's Executive Director stated that the fraternity was previously made aware of the incidents and has taken action against those involved.