Witness Testifies Against Alleged Penn State Drug Ring Leader
A witness provided testimony at Agostino Abbatiello’s preliminary hearing on September 2, detailing interactions with the alleged leader of a drug operation associated with three Penn State fraternities. Lars Zeepvat, who is also facing felony charges, recounted that Abbatiello urged him not to cooperate with law enforcement during a conversation at a bar on July 4, 2025.
Zeepvat stated that Abbatiello was aware of a potential grand jury investigation and advised him against involvement. After receiving a letter summoning him to testify before the grand jury, Zeepvat claimed he contacted Abbatiello, who reiterated his request for silence. Zeepvat, identified as Abbatiello's business partner and a member of Sigma Chi, testified that their drug dealings began with personal purchases of cocaine, which escalated to larger transactions.
Zeepvat described Abbatiello as a significant cocaine dealer among Penn State students and admitted to assisting in drug sales due to financial constraints. Abbatiello faces 11 felony charges, while Zeepvat has indicated plans to plead not guilty to his own four felony and two misdemeanor charges.
