Crime & Safety

Morris Co. Man Charged In College Frat Cocaine Ring, AG Says

The 24-year-old is one of 14 people charged in the fraternity-run cocaine ring, authorities said.

MENDHAM, NJ — A Mendham man has been charged in a massive cocaine ring bust at Penn State University, according to Pa. Attorney General Dave Sunday.

Lars Zeepvat, 24, is one of 14 people charged in connection with a cocaine-trafficking operation involving college students and two fraternities, authorities said.

According to officials, between 2023 and 2024, co-conspirators Agostino Abbatiello and Thomas Robinson were the "main suppliers for the group," making trips to Philadelphia and New York to buy "large quantities of cocaine."

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The drugs were packaged and cut at Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternity houses, and then distributed to Penn State students, according to authorities.

Investigators say a majority of the drug sales were done via cash or via payment apps.

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Officials did not specify exactly what role Zeepvat allegedly played in the drug ring; however, he and four others are charged with felony corrupt organizations, conspiracy, dealing in proceeds of unlawful activity, and "related offenses." A fifth man was also charged with different felonies.

The other eight people involved were slapped with misdemeanor charges, including counts of possession and paraphernalia.

“This was a coordinated and highly-profitable drug-trafficking crew revolving around two senior members of the fraternities, other fraternity brothers, and pledges,” Attorney General Sunday said. “In fact, according to the evidence uncovered, cutting and packaging cocaine was, for some pledges, an indoctrination into the fraternities.”

The case is being prosecuted by the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General's Drug Strike Force Section.

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