Antonio Ginestri, known to his million online followers as “Squeeze.benz,” a YouTube personality famous for his high-speed driving videos in New York City, is now facing serious charges. He has been implicated in a series of burglaries across New Jersey, according to police reports. This arrest comes just months after Ginestri was apprehended for an assault in Queens, adding to a growing list of legal troubles for the 19-year-old.
On Tuesday, Ginestri was officially charged in connection with multiple burglaries that occurred in February. The charges include burglary and conspiracy, marking a significant escalation in the legal issues surrounding the social media figure known as Squeeze benz.
The Fairfield Police Department detailed an incident on Route 46 East at a Speedway gas station. In the early hours of February 6th, officers responded to a reported burglary. Security footage from the scene captured a gray SUV speeding away from the location, carrying three individuals.
Further investigation revealed that the gray SUV was a BMW X7, equipped with stolen New Jersey registration plates. This vehicle is alleged to have been used in similar burglaries throughout the region, including incidents in Roseland, Secaucus, and Hasbrouck Heights. Law enforcement agencies in New York and Connecticut were also seeking the suspects and the vehicle in connection to other crimes, indicating a wider pattern of alleged criminal activity linked to Squeeze benz and his associates.
Ginestri and a 16-year-old were eventually apprehended and charged in connection with these burglaries.
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, high-performance cars 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, leading to these arrests.”
Interestingly, Ginestri’s initial arrest on May 16th was not directly related to his high-speed video stunts. That arrest stemmed from an incident on February 10th inside the Steinway Deli in Queens. Police reported that Ginestri allegedly punched a victim in the head at the deli in Long Island City, resulting in an assault charge. A 16-year-old was also arrested in April and charged with assault and harassment related to the same deli incident.
Despite the serious charges, Squeeze benz initially gained notoriety for his daring videos showcasing him weaving through traffic in New York City’s five boroughs. The NYPD even labeled him “one of the most prolific street racers” in the city. His online videos documented speeds reaching up to 130 mph as he navigated city streets and evaded police. He even posted videos online seemingly taunting New Jersey police, including one clip showing him performing donuts around a Newark police vehicle.
At present, attorney information for Ginestri, the individual behind “Squeeze benz,” remains unclear as he faces these multiple charges across state lines.
