Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday has discussed possible actions against Penn State following the discovery of an alleged cocaine trafficking ring within the university’s fraternities. Authorities reported approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine moved through the operation every second month, indicating the existence of a “sophisticated” trafficking network.
“This was a very sophisticated endeavor. It wasn’t just a couple of college kids sharing drugs,” Sunday said during a news conference. He emphasized the gravity and organization of the operation.
Authorities have charged fourteen individuals, including both current and former Penn State students, with felony and misdemeanor offenses related to illicit activities occurring between 2023 and 2024. Prosecutors have identified Agostino Abbatiello, 24, and Thomas Robinson, 23, as alleged leaders. These individuals allegedly traveled to Philadelphia and New York to acquire “large quantities” of cocaine, used Snapchat for drug deals, and received payments through Venmo.
Sunday expressed concerns about organizations like this functioning for extended periods. “As the attorney general, obviously I have a lot of concern when you have organizations like this that run for as long as it did,” he told Fox News.
Reports indicate pledges at Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities were allegedly directed to cut and package cocaine during their initiation, showcasing the impact of peer pressure. “When you’re young … peer pressure is one of the most powerful forms of motivation,” Sunday explained.
Penn State responded to the allegations, expressing shock and suspending Delta Upsilon temporarily. Sigma Chi operates outside official university oversight, and hence is not recognized by Penn State.
The allegations arise nearly a decade after a fraternity-related incident garnered national attention in 2017. Tim Piazza, a 19-year-old student, died following excessive alcohol consumption during a hazing incident at the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
Attorney General Sunday has stated that 14 individuals are facing charges in connection with the cocaine trafficking ring operating off-campus at Penn State.
Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum questioned Sunday on potential actions against Penn State amid the ongoing investigation and historical fraternity-related controversies. The attorney general stressed his hope for Penn State to respond appropriately under these circumstances. “Up to this point, the university has been very open to collaboration,” he stated, hoping for collective efforts to resolve these issues.
Penn State has not yet commented publicly on the matter. Fox News Digital reached out for additional information.