Authorities Finally Arrested and Charged Man for Stealing Instruments from Rock Band Heart
via Rock Jams / YouTube
Instruments Stolen During Heart Concert
A 57-year-old man from New Jersey has been arrested after stealing two instruments from the band Heart during their show at the Hard Rock Atlantic City on May 31.
Police were called to the venue when a custom purple Telecaster guitar belonging to Nancy Wilson and a 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin belonging to guitarist Paul Moak went missing from Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. On June 3, Wilson posted on social media about the theft and offered a reward for the instruments’ return.
Suspect Identified Through Security Footage
After reviewing security footage, police identified Garfield Bennett of Pleasantville, New Jersey, as the suspect. He was seen trying to sell the stolen items in Atlantic City. Bennett was arrested on Wednesday and charged with burglary and theft.
Wilson released a statement saying, “These instruments are more than just tools of our trade — they’re extensions of our musical souls. The baritone Tele was made uniquely for me, and Paul’s mandolin has been with him for decades. We’re heartbroken, and we’re asking for their safe return — no questions asked. Their value to us is immeasurable.”
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Police Seek Help From the Public
Authorities said one of the instruments had already been sold, and its current location is unknown. Police are asking the public for help in finding it.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Atlantic City Police Department at 609-347-5766 or send an anonymous message to tip411 (847411).
