Westbury man 'at the very top' of Penn State cocaine trafficking ring: prosecutors
Agostino Abbatiello was one of 14 people arrested in the alleged drug ring.
WESTBURY, Long Island (WABC) -- A 24-year-old Penn State graduate from Westbury is among 14 people indicted in an alleged cocaine distribution operation tied to two fraternities at the university, according to prosecutors.
Agostino Abbatiello, who lived on a well-manicured street in Westbury, was identified in a criminal complaint as the largest distributor in the alleged cocaine ring at Penn State.
“Abbatiello was at the very top of the chain,” the attorney general said.
Prosecutors allege that Abbatiello’s former fraternity, Sigma Chi, and Delta Upsilon hosted parties involving drugs and engaged in hazing that included the use of those drugs.
“Cutting and bagging cocaine was, for some pledges, an indoctrination into the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities,” the attorney general said.
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 Eyewitness News 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.
