Antonio Ginestri, widely recognized online as “Squeeze.benz,” a YouTube personality famous for his high-speed driving videos across New York City, is now facing serious legal repercussions. Months after a prior arrest for assault in Queens, the 19-year-old is now charged in connection to a series of burglaries in New Jersey. This development raises a critical question for his million of followers and the wider public: How long could Squeeze Benz be in jail for these offenses?
Fairfield police reported that Ginestri was charged on Tuesday with multiple burglaries dating back to February. The charges include burglary and conspiracy, stemming from incidents that terrorized businesses across multiple jurisdictions. The investigation began on the early morning of February 6th, when Fairfield officers responded to a burglary at a Speedway gas station on Route 46 East. Security footage from the scene revealed a gray SUV carrying three individuals speeding away.
This gray SUV, identified as a BMW x7 with stolen New Jersey registration plates, was allegedly linked to similar burglaries in Roseland, Secaucus, and Hasbrouck Heights. Authorities believe the same group of individuals were involved in these incidents, and the suspects and vehicle were also being sought for connections to other crimes in New York and Connecticut. Ginestri was apprehended along with a 16-year-old in connection to these burglaries.
Fairfield Police Public Information Officer Stacy Chiarolanza commented on Ginestri’s arrest, highlighting his online persona: “Ginestri is a well-known social media influencer who goes by the handle ‘Squeeze.Benz.’ The basis of his channel is to film himself driving hi-end cars in a reckless manner to entice a police response while wearing a full-face helmet to hide his identity. We thank all of the agencies who assisted in putting this case together in order to make an arrest.”
Prior to these burglary charges, Ginestri was arrested on May 16 for an assault incident unrelated to his viral videos. This incident occurred on February 10th inside the Steinway Deli in Queens, where he allegedly punched a victim in the head 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.
Ginestri gained notoriety for his daring videos showcasing reckless driving through New York City’s boroughs. The NYPD had labeled him “one of the most prolific street racers” in the city. His online videos depicted him speeding and evading police, at times reaching speeds of 130 mph. He had even posted videos taunting New Jersey police, including one clip showing him performing donuts around a Newark police vehicle.
While attorney information for Ginestri remains unclear at this time, the charges of burglary and conspiracy are serious offenses that could carry significant jail time depending on the specific charges, severity, and sentencing guidelines in New Jersey. The question of how long Squeeze Benz will be in jail for is still open, and will depend on the legal proceedings and outcomes of these cases in both New Jersey and New York.
