Antonio Ginestri, known to millions online as “Squeeze.benz,” a YouTube personality famous for his audacious videos of speeding through New York City streets, is now facing serious charges. Months after being arrested for assault in Queens, Ginestri has been linked to a series of burglaries in New Jersey.
On Tuesday, police officially charged the 19-year-old Ginestri with multiple counts of burglary and conspiracy, stemming from incidents dating back to February. The Fairfield Police Department reported responding to a burglary at a Speedway gas station on Route 46 East in the early hours of February 6th. Security footage revealed a gray SUV carrying three individuals fleeing the scene.
Further investigation revealed the gray SUV to be a BMW X7, equipped with stolen New Jersey license plates. This vehicle was allegedly connected to similar burglaries in Roseland, Secaucus, and Hasbrouck Heights. Authorities believe the same group of individuals were involved in these incidents and are also seeking them for potential crimes in New York and Connecticut.
Ginestri and a 16-year-old were apprehended and charged in connection to the burglaries.
Fairfield Police Public Information Officer Stacy Chiarolanza commented on Ginestri’s online persona, stating, “Ginestri is a well-known social media influencer who goes by the handle ‘Squeeze.Benz.’ His online content primarily features him driving high-end vehicles recklessly, often in an attempt to provoke a police response, all while wearing a full-face helmet to conceal his identity. We appreciate the collaboration of all agencies involved in this case, which led to these arrests.”
Ginestri’s initial arrest occurred on May 16th, unrelated to his traffic antics. He was charged with assault for an incident that took place on February 10th inside the Steinway Deli in Queens. According to police reports, Ginestri allegedly punched a victim in the head at the deli located in Long Island City. In April, a 16-year-old was also arrested and charged with assault and harassment related to the same deli incident.
“Squeeze.benz” had cultivated a significant online following with his daring videos showcasing him weaving through traffic across New York City’s five boroughs. The NYPD had identified him as “one of the most prolific street racers” in the city. His videos often depicted him speeding at dangerous velocities, sometimes reaching 130 mph, while evading law enforcement.
Adding to his brazen behavior, Ginestri had also posted videos taunting New Jersey police. One video clip showed him performing donuts in the street around a Newark police vehicle.
Currently, attorney information for Ginestri is not publicly available.
