Charges Against Alleged Penn State Drug Trafficker Advance
A Centre County judge has ruled that charges against Agostino Abbatiello, identified as a leader in a fraternity drug trafficking operation, will continue as part of preliminary hearings for five conspirators.
Judge Jonathan Grine granted Abbatiello a bail of $250,000 after initially denying it during his arraignment on August 18. He faces 11 felony charges, including possession with intent to deliver and conspiracy. Abbatiello, a former Penn State student and member of Sigma Chi fraternity, is accused of leading a cocaine trafficking ring that reportedly generated over $123,500 in drug payments.
Abbatiello is among 13 individuals charged in connection with the operation, which allegedly took place at off-campus residences associated with Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi. Witness testimony has labeled him as a major cocaine supplier for Penn State students. Three other men charged with felonies waived their preliminary hearings and testified against him, while additional hearings for other defendants are scheduled for October.
