Agostino Abbatiello, accused of heading a cocaine distribution network involving two fraternities at Penn State University, was reportedly known for disruptive behavior during his earlier years at an all-boys Catholic high school on Long Island. Sources familiar with Abbatiello’s background described him as a “loudmouth” and a class clown during his time at Chaminade High School in Mineola, a private institution with an annual tuition of $19,000.
While the school emphasizes faith, discipline, and community values, classmates said Abbatiello, often called “Auggie,” frequently tested boundaries and was involved in activities such as underage drinking and attending house parties with a group of peers. “He was not this innocent boy,” one former classmate said, recalling Abbatiello’s penchant for seeking attention, making jokes, and occasionally causing disruptions in the classroom.
Abbatiello, 24, earned the nickname “The Godfather” at Penn State, where authorities allege he was the key figure in a cocaine operation distributing drugs among fraternity members. Court testimony from Lars Zeepvat, identified as a close associate and fellow Penn State graduate charged in connection with the case, detailed the scope of the alleged operation. Zeepvat stated that Abbatiello procured drugs from an individual known as “RJ,” whom he reportedly met during high school. According to Zeepvat, Abbatiello’s initial purchase was notably large — around 100 grams of cocaine — which surprised those involved.
Authorities revealed that Abbatiello transported cocaine from New York back to the university and distributed it at fraternity social events. Despite multiple requests, neither Abbatiello’s attorney, his family, nor representatives from Chaminade or Penn State responded to inquiries about the case.
The legal troubles of the Abbatiello family extend beyond Agostino. His younger brother, Sebastiano Abbatiello, 20, also faces charges related to cocaine possession. Sebastiano, who followed in his brother’s footsteps by graduating from Chaminade in 2024 and enrolling at Penn State, was detained by Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission officers following a boating collision on Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir. Officers found two grams of cocaine in his possession alongside drug paraphernalia. He was subsequently charged with misdemeanor offenses, including operating a boat under the influence and possession of controlled substances. Sebastiano’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for mid-October.
The Abbatiello brothers come from an affluent background in Westbury, Long Island, where their parents, Mario and Danielle Abbatiello, reside. Mario Abbatiello has operated a paving and construction business since 1984. Former classmates expressed surprise at the charges given the family’s socioeconomic status and neighborhood.
Court testimony further revealed that Agostino Abbatiello allegedly sought to increase his social standing through drug dealing, distributing free cocaine at parties and reportedly spending large sums on clothing and recreational items, including an expensive bong valued at approximately $5,000.
The unfolding case has cast a spotlight on drug distribution at college fraternities and the challenges facing institutions in maintaining student conduct and safety. Authorities continue to investigate and pursue legal action related to the alleged network led by Abbatiello.