A YouTube personality and social media figure known for his high-speed driving videos in New York City, identified online as “Squeeze.benz,” is facing charges related to a series of burglaries in New Jersey. This arrest comes just months after he was apprehended for an assault in Queens, adding a serious turn to the narrative of the internet-famous driver.
Antonio Ginestri, the 19-year-old behind the “Squeeze.benz” persona followed by a million on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, was formally charged on Tuesday. The charges stem from multiple burglary incidents dating back to February and include burglary and conspiracy.
According to the Fairfield Police Department, 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 with three individuals inside.
WATCH HERE
The vehicle involved, a gray BMW x7, was later discovered to be using stolen New Jersey registration plates. Law enforcement alleges that this same vehicle was implicated in similar burglaries across the region, including incidents in Roseland, Secaucus, and Hasbrouck Heights. Authorities believe the occupants of the BMW were the same individuals connected to these crimes, and further investigations revealed potential links to other offenses in New York and Connecticut.
Ginestri was apprehended along with a 16-year-old in connection to these burglaries.
SIGN UP
Fairfield Police Public Information Officer Stacy Chiarolanza commented on the arrest, stating, “Ginestri is widely recognized as the social media influencer ‘Squeeze.Benz.’ His online content primarily features him driving luxury, high-performance cars recklessly, often provoking police responses while concealing his identity with a full-face helmet. We are grateful to all the agencies that collaborated in this investigation, enabling us to make these arrests.”
Prior to these burglary charges, Ginestri was initially arrested on May 16th for an unrelated incident. This earlier arrest was for an assault that occurred on February 10th at the Steinway Deli in Queens. Police reports indicate that the victim was at the deli in Long Island City when Ginestri allegedly punched him in the head. A 16-year-old was also arrested in April and charged with assault and harassment related to the same deli incident.
News
Eric Adams 5 hours ago
Hochul won’t remove Adams from office ‘at this time,’ will limit his power and add oversight
Weather 5 hours ago
More winter cold and a bit of snow for NYC area before a brief warmup arrives
Ginestri’s online fame is built upon videos showcasing dangerous driving maneuvers through New York City’s boroughs. The NYPD has described him as “one of the most prolific street racers” operating in the city. His videos often feature him speeding and evading law enforcement, reportedly reaching speeds up to 130 mph. He has even posted videos that appear to taunt New Jersey police, including one clip showing him performing donuts in the street near a Newark police vehicle.
At present, attorney information for Ginestri is not publicly available.
