Pittsburgh lawyer charged with helping son conceal evidence in cocaine case
A prominent Pittsburgh attorney, Paul Robinson, has been indicted for allegedly helping his son conceal evidence connected to a major cocaine trafficking operation run by Penn State students. Robinson, aged 59 and managing attorney at a well-known local law firm, faces felony charges of tampering with evidence and hindering apprehension. His son, Thomas Robinson, 24, is accused of being a senior figure in the drug operation that prosecutors describe as "coordinated and highly profitable," involving members of two fraternities who allegedly recruited pledges to package and distribute cocaine.
In a statement released through his lawyer, Paul Robinson has denied the allegations whilst acknowledging he is "not a perfect person," stating that his only concern has been supporting his family. He claims that after his son's original arrest two years ago, he attempted to help Thomas rebuild his life—which included completing his degree, receiving counselling, and starting a business. Robinson suggests that his son's cooperation with investigators led to additional charges being filed against him. More than a dozen Penn State students have been charged in connection with the alleged trafficking network that operated around the university in 2023 and 2024, centred on members of the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities.
- Pittsburgh lawyer charged for allegedly hiding evidence in son's cocaine trafficking case
- Prosecutors say he concealed a safe containing drugs and cash linked to the operation
- Attorney denies charges, claims he only tried to help son rebuild life after college mistake
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A parent's natural desire to help their child rehabilitate after a serious mistake is understandable and human. Robinson's statement indicates he focused on supporting his son's reintegration through education, counselling, and legitimate employment—conventional rehabilitation efforts. If his actions involved assisting with genuine life reconstruction rather than actively destroying evidence or systematically obstructing specific investigative steps, this might reflect compassionate parenting within reasonable bounds rather than criminal conduct.
The case against
A prominent attorney bears a professional and ethical duty to uphold the law, not to conceal evidence or impede investigations, regardless of familial ties. Evidence tampering corrodes the justice system's capacity to pursue truth and maintain accountability. If Robinson employed his legal expertise or position to actively obstruct justice—whether to shield his son or for any reason—this constitutes a grave breach of professional obligation, particularly serious because lawyers possess the knowledge and responsibility to recognise and respect legal boundaries.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Penn State cocaine kingpin’s father admits ‘I’ve not lived a perfect life’ as he’s indicted for helping boys run drug empire”.