A YouTube and Instagram personality, widely recognized for his audacious videos of high-speed driving across New York City, has transitioned from online notoriety to real-world legal battles. Antonio Ginestri, known to his million plus followers as “Squeeze.benz” on Instagram, is now facing serious charges in connection to a series of burglaries in New Jersey. This development comes just months after his arrest for an assault incident in Queens, further darkening the image of the once-celebrated online figure.
Ginestri, 19, was formally charged on Tuesday with multiple counts of burglary and conspiracy stemming from incidents that occurred in February. According to Fairfield police reports, officers responded to a reported burglary at a Speedway gas station on Route 46 East in the early hours of February 6th. Security footage from the scene captured a gray SUV speeding away from the location, carrying three individuals.
The vehicle, identified as a BMW x7 utilizing stolen New Jersey registration plates, was allegedly linked to similar burglaries in neighboring areas including Roseland, Secaucus, and Hasbrouck Heights. Law enforcement agencies believe the same group of individuals were involved in these connected incidents. Furthermore, authorities indicated that the suspects and the BMW were also being investigated for potential involvement in other criminal activities extending into New York and Connecticut.
The investigation culminated in the arrest of Ginestri and a 16-year-old accomplice.
Fairfield Police Public Information Officer Stacy Chiarolanza commented on the arrest, highlighting Ginestri’s online persona: “Ginestri is a well-known social media influencer operating under the handle ‘Squeeze.Benz.’ His online content primarily features him driving luxury vehicles recklessly, often in an attempt to provoke police responses, all while concealing his identity with a full-face helmet. We extend our gratitude to all the agencies that collaborated in this investigation, enabling us to bring about these arrests.”
Ginestri’s initial arrest occurred on May 16th, although it was unrelated to his traffic-related videos. He was charged with assault following an incident inside the Steinway Deli in Queens on February 10th. Police reports indicate that Ginestri allegedly punched the victim in the head at the Long Island City deli. A 16-year-old was also arrested in April in connection with the same assault, facing charges of assault and harassment.
Despite the serious charges, Ginestri initially gained online fame through his daring videos showcasing dangerous driving maneuvers through New York City traffic. The NYPD previously labeled him as “one of the most prolific street racers” in the city. His Instagram and YouTube channels, under the “Squeeze Benz Instagram” moniker, featured videos of him speeding, at times reaching speeds of 130 mph, and seemingly evading law enforcement. He even posted videos that appeared to taunt New Jersey police, including one clip showing him performing donuts around a Newark police vehicle.
At present, attorney information for Ginestri remains unavailable. The unfolding legal proceedings mark a significant turn for the social media figure known as “Squeeze benz instagram,” as his online antics now intersect with serious felony allegations.
