NEW YORK — A dramatic turn of events has unveiled that a 24-year-old Penn State alum from New York finds himself among 14 individuals charged for their roles in an alleged cocaine distribution network linked to two fraternities at the university, prosecutors reveal.
Agostino Abbatiello, a resident of a pristine area in Long Island’s Westbury, emerges as a central figure in this unfolding legal saga. The criminal complaint identifies him as the kingpin of this purported cocaine operation within Penn State’s community.
“Abbatiello was at the very top of the chain,” asserted the attorney general, underscoring the alleged leadership role he played in the drug supply chain.
According to allegations by prosecutors, Abbatiello’s former fraternal allies, Sigma Chi and Delta Upsilon, were not only venues for drug-centric parties but also engaged in hazing rituals involving narcotics use.
In a rather shocking revelation, the attorney general stated, “Cutting and bagging cocaine was, for some pledges, an indoctrination into the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities,” highlighting the controversial practices these groups allegedly employed.
In a statement, the university said, “We are horrified by these serious allegations,” adding that “criminal activity, including hazing such as this, has no place at our institution.”
Investigators allege the drug activity occurred during 2023 and 2024. The investigation resulted in 14 indictments announced Monday, including that of Paul Robinson, a student’s parent and attorney.
“…Who we allege took steps to conceal evidence including a safe containing drugs and cash,” the attorney general said.
Also arrested was Robert Zanolla, 24, of Manhasset. Prosecutors allege Zanolla helped move cocaine from New York City.
When approached at a residence connected to Zanolla, a person at the door responded to questions from our sister station, ABC7 Eyewitness News in New York, by saying, “Yeah I’m not talking.”
The attorney general said the arrests should serve as a warning to others.
“Just because you’re at college and you’re making money and you think that this is something you can get away with … it’s not,” the attorney general said.
Prosecutors said the investigation remains ongoing and expressed hope that it will send a message to young adults heading to colleges around the country this week.
Some neighbors of those charged agreed, saying the case should serve as a wake-up call.
“If you’re not in a good place call your parents, call somebody that you love that will help you that’s really what it’s about, it’s unfortunate and I hope these boys are OK and their future’s OK,” said Trish Dessi, a Manhasset resident.
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