Penn State frat drug suspect's bail denied as attorneys seek hearing delay
Defense lawyer Philip Masorti argues that 24-year-old Agostino Abbatiello, accused in a Penn State cocaine ring, is being held without bail despite having no record, and asks for a postponement of his upcoming court appearance.
A motion was submitted by defense counsel Philip Masorti on Tuesday on behalf of Agostino Abbatiello, a 24-year-old from Long Island accused of involvement in a Penn State fraternity cocaine network. Masorti contended that Abbatiello's detention without bail violates his rights, emphasizing his lack of prior convictions, no indication of flight, and the fact that investigators never alleged any violent behavior or weapon possession during the two-year probe.
He pointed out that out of the 13 alleged participants, Abbatiello is the sole individual denied bail. The motion sought to postpone the upcoming hearing, which was set for the following day. However, a Centre County Court of Common Pleas judge ruled the request moot, allowing the hearing to continue as scheduled.
Why it matters
The case raises questions about bail decisions and fairness in high-profile college drug prosecutions.
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