Man Arrested & Charged With Stealing Instruments From Heart

The recent arrest of a man in connection with the theft of musical instruments belonging to the legendary rock band Heart from an Atlantic City venue has captivated music enthusiasts and the broader public. This crime involved pilfering a custom-built, purple sparkle baritone Telecaster guitar and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin, instruments that hold deep sentimental value to the band members, Nancy Wilson and Paul Moak. Heart, known for their classic hits like “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You,” and “Alone,” were preparing for their eagerly anticipated “An Evening With Heart” tour, marking a triumphant return to the stage after Ann Wilson’s health-related hiatus.

Surveillance video led Atlantic City police to Garfield Bennett, a 57-year-old resident of Pleasantville, who was seen attempting to sell the stolen instruments. He faces charges of burglary and theft, the two colossal charges reflecting the significant cultural and emotional value of the stolen items. Despite one instrument being sold, the other remains at large, prompting the band to appeal for public support in hopes of its safe return. They emphasized that these iconic pieces were more than mere accessories for a performance; they are crucial elements of the band's identity and connection to their music. Nancy Wilson expressed the profound loss the band feels due to the theft, highlighting the instruments as “extensions of our musical souls.”

The theft occurred as the band geared up for a performance at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, which was supposed to mark a significant milestone in Heart's storied career. Unfortunately, the act of theft overshadowed the event, bringing unexpected strife to the band known for their resilience and artistic legacy. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino committed to cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation, as they prioritize the safety and satisfaction of guests, artists, and staff. Despite the unfortunate incident, the hotel continues to support efforts to resolve the situation by collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies.

The criminal investigation, which has yet to recover both instruments, underscores the importance of security measures for artists and performers, especially at high-profile venues, to protect their personal and professional assets. Moreover, it sheds light on the collective responsibility shared by music communities and fans alike to preserve the heritage and instruments that play pivotal roles in artistic expression. Heart, led by the powerful sister duo Nancy and Ann Wilson, are rock icons, having earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy, which further exemplifies the depth and impact of their contributions to music.