Agostino Abbatiello, 24, surrendered Tuesday morning and was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Kelley Gillette-Walker on multiple felony counts, including possession with intent to deliver cocaine and conspiracy. The judge denied bail.
Abbatiello had been charged Monday but failed to appear for his scheduled arraignment. His surrender a day later closed the last open question in a case Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced publicly this week.
"We are pleased to report that the most significant members of this cocaine-trafficking organization are accounted for, and will have their fair process in court," Sunday said. "These are very serious charges and the next steps will be preliminary hearings."
According to a grand jury presentment, Abbatiello and co-defendant Thomas Robinson served as the main suppliers for the operation. The two made regular trips to Philadelphia and New York to acquire large quantities of cocaine, which they cut and packaged at the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternity houses on or near the Penn State University campus. Distribution went mainly to Penn State students during 2023 and 2024.
Of the 14 defendants charged, 13 were Penn State students. Abbatiello, Thomas Robinson, Mohammed Hurabi and Lars Zeepvat face the most serious felony counts: corrupt organizations, conspiracy, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity and related offenses.
Robert Zanolla faces felony conspiracy and criminal use of a communication facility. Eight others—Liam Smith, Michael Brogno, Kaden Howe, Connor Hurleigh, Seth Beardsley, Kyle Ridpath, Daniel Price and Charles Wiseman—face misdemeanor counts of possession and paraphernalia.
Paul Robinson, Thomas Robinson's father, is charged with felony tampering and hindering apprehension. According to the presentment, he concealed evidence including a safe containing drugs and cash and obstructed the investigation.
The Drug Strike Force Section of the Office of Attorney General is prosecuting all 14 cases. Criminal charges are allegations; all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
