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Pennsylvania Attorney General Charges 14 in Penn State Fraternity Cocaine Ring
Just the facts
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced that 14 individuals face criminal charges for participating in a cocaine distribution network operating near Pennsylvania State University. Prosecutors named Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson as the primary suppliers who procured cocaine from Philadelphia and New York City for distribution in State College, Pennsylvania. Members and pledges of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities allegedly cut, packaged, and distributed the drug from off-campus fraternity houses. Thirteen of the defendants were enrolled as Penn State students during the multi-year operation, while the 14th defendant, Paul Robinson, was charged with tampering with evidence to hinder law enforcement. Following the announcement, Penn State placed the Delta Upsilon fraternity on interim suspension, while university officials noted that Sigma Chi operates as an unrecognized organization.
Why this is news
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced criminal charges against 14 individuals involved in a drug trafficking operation centered at Pennsylvania State University. The operation allegedly utilized members and pledges from off-campus fraternities to package and distribute cocaine.
Developments timeline
- Agostino Abbatiello, the 24-year-old alleged ringleader of the Penn State fraternity cocaine distribution network, surrendered to law enforcement officers on Tuesday and was held without bail after missing his scheduled court arraignment.
Sources
This summary is compiled strictly from the original reporting below.