Home / Crime and Justice / Fraternity Cocaine Ring Exposed Near Penn State
Fraternity Cocaine Ring Exposed Near Penn State
3 Sep
Summary
- Drug operation grew from 100 grams to kilogram-size cocaine sales.
- Alleged ringleader Agostino Abbatiello used fraternity connections.
- Witness testimony detailed drug purchases and sales near campus.
A former fraternity member testified at preliminary hearings regarding an alleged drug operation near Penn State, detailing how purchases of cocaine grew from 100 grams to full kilogram quantities. Agostino Abbatiello is identified as the alleged ringleader of this operation, which prosecutors claim utilized fraternity connections for distribution in State College.
Testimony revealed that drugs were allegedly transported to State College from Philadelphia, New York, and Long Island. Purchases began with small amounts, like 100 grams for $4,000, and progressed to much larger quantities, including 1 kilogram for approximately $22,000. The cocaine was reportedly broken down into smaller bags and sold to students, primarily within fraternity houses.
Defense attorneys challenged the credibility of witnesses, noting their own drug use. However, evidence was presented, including the seizure of a safe containing cocaine, marijuana, a handgun, and Adderall pills from a fraternity room. Abbatiello was granted $250,000 bail, while other defendants face various charges related to the alleged drug conspiracy.
