Conway, SC, January 29, 2026
Alec Arinello, a 19-year-old student from New Hampshire, has been arrested in Conway, South Carolina, for a series of unusual break-ins. Dubbed the ‘Queso Man’, Arinello faces three counts of first-degree burglary after allegedly vandalizing homes with food items such as nacho queso and eggs. The incidents have captured the attention of the local community and sparked discussion about public safety and the nature of these bizarre crimes.
Conway, South Carolina
A young man has been apprehended in Conway, South Carolina, following a series of unusual break-ins that garnered significant public attention. Alec Arinello, 19, a student at Coastal Carolina University originally from New Hampshire, was arrested on January 14, 2026, by Horry County Police. He faces three counts of first-degree burglary stemming from incidents described by many as “cheesy crimes” due to the peculiar nature of the vandalism involved. This development brings a measure of clarity to a situation that has captivated the local community and spread across online platforms.
Details of the Peculiar Intrusions
The alleged crimes, which took place in the early morning hours of January 14, involved multiple residential properties in the Conway area. According to police reports, Arinello is accused of breaking into or attempting to break into at least five homes. The method of these intrusions was particularly unsettling: once inside, homes were reportedly defaced with food items. Victims described waking to find nacho queso, syrup, and eggs splattered across their living spaces.
In one notable instance, a couple on Quail Run Road awoke to find an intruder in their bedroom. After the individual fled, residents discovered that queso had been poured over their television and living room furniture, with eggs smashed upon the floor and furniture overturned. Items were also reported stolen, including golf clubs and a bong, though some residents reportedly declined to press charges for certain stolen items. The unusual and destructive nature of these acts quickly led to the perpetrator being dubbed the “Queso Man” by various media outlets, amplifying the story’s viral reach.
The Investigation and Arrest
Law enforcement officials responded to numerous reports of these bizarre break-ins. The investigation led officers to Alec Arinello, who was found attempting to flee on foot. He was apprehended hiding behind a bush near the Coastal Carolina baseball stadium. A subsequent search of Arinello’s Jeep reportedly revealed some of the stolen items, including golf clubs. He was taken into custody by Horry County Police on the day of the alleged incidents, January 14, 2026.
Following his arrest, Arinello was charged with three counts of first-degree burglary. He was later released on a $15,000 bond. The swift identification and apprehension of a suspect in these bewildering crimes offered a measure of reassurance to residents, though the peculiar circumstances of the events themselves continued to invite contemplation on the motivations behind such disruptive acts.
Community and Broader Implications
The incident in Conway, South Carolina, serves as a poignant reminder of the unexpected ways in which the peace of domestic life can be disturbed. While property crimes are a persistent concern in communities, the specific, almost theatrical, defacement of homes with food items presented a dimension of transgression that transcends mere theft. Such acts, though perhaps appearing outlandish, leave a tangible and emotional imprint on those affected, compelling a community to reflect on the vulnerabilities inherent in everyday life. The swift response of law enforcement underscores the commitment to restoring order and addressing even the most unconventional challenges to public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the main news event?
A man dubbed “Queso Man” was arrested in Conway, South Carolina, for a series of “cheesy crimes” involving break-ins and food vandalism. -
When did the alleged crimes occur?
The alleged crimes took place in the early morning hours of January 14, 2026. -
Who is the “Queso Man”?
The individual arrested is Alec Arinello, a 19-year-old student from New Hampshire enrolled at Coastal Carolina University. -
Where were these incidents reported?
The incidents were reported in the Conway area of South Carolina. -
What were the specific “cheesy crimes”?
Homes were allegedly defaced with nacho queso, syrup, and eggs. Items such as golf clubs and a bong were also reportedly stolen. -
When was Alec Arinello arrested and what are the charges?
Alec Arinello was arrested on January 14, 2026, and faces three counts of first-degree burglary. -
Was the suspect released?
Yes, Arinello was released on a $15,000 bond.
Key Features of the “Queso Man” Incident
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location of Crimes | Conway, South Carolina |
| Date of Incidents | January 14, 2026 |
| Suspect Identified | Alec Arinello, 19, a student from New Hampshire |
| Nature of Crimes | Break-ins, vandalism with nacho queso, syrup, and eggs, theft of items |
| Number of Homes Affected | At least five homes |
| Arrest Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Charges Filed | Three counts of first-degree burglary |
| Bail Amount | $15,000 bond |
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
