Atlantic City police responded swiftly after a guitar and mandolin were stolen from the rock band Heart ahead of their performance at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Friday, May 30. The theft occurred after the band had set up their gear the day before the show at Etess Arena. The instruments, both of significant sentimental and artistic value, were reported missing just hours before the scheduled performance, prompting an immediate police investigation.
Suspect Identified Through Surveillance Footage, Stolen Instruments Still Missing
Police used surveillance footage to identify the suspect as 57-year-old Garfield Bennett, a Pleasantville resident. Footage reportedly showed Bennett walking through Atlantic City and attempting to sell the stolen instruments. He was arrested on South Kentucky Avenue and has since been charged with burglary and theft. Authorities are continuing efforts to recover the stolen items.
Heart’s Guitars Stolen Before Atlantic City Show as Police Arrest Suspect and Wilson Offers RewardThe stolen items include a 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin belonging to musician Paul Moak, who has played it for over 25 years, and a custom-made baritone electric Telecaster guitar designed for Heart’s Nancy Wilson. The Telecaster is notable for its purple body and multicolored floral headstock. One of the instruments has already been sold, while the other remains unaccounted for. Police are urging the public to come forward with information, warning that possession of the items could lead to criminal charges.
Nancy Wilson Appeals for Return of Treasured Instruments, Reward Offered with No Questions
Nancy Wilson made a heartfelt public appeal for the safe return of the instruments, emphasizing their deep personal significance. “These instruments are more than just tools of our trade — they’re extensions of our musical souls,” she stated on Instagram. A reward is being offered for the instruments’ return, with a promise of no questions asked. The band hopes that public compassion and the reward will lead to the recovery of the stolen pieces.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City released a statement expressing their full cooperation with law enforcement and commitment to guest and performer safety. Due to the ongoing investigation, the hotel declined further comment. Heart, whose tour was already impacted earlier in the year by Ann Wilson’s cancer diagnosis and surgery, faces another setback with this theft. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the Atlantic City Police Department or band associate Tony Moon.