Stolen Heart instruments spark police investigation in Atlantic City

In Atlantic City, New Jersey, two priceless musical instruments were stolen from the rock band Heart just before they were set to launch a nationwide tour on May 30, 2025. The theft occurred on the eve of the band’s performance at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino during their 'An Evening With Heart' tour. The stolen items included a custom purple sparkle baritone Telecaster guitar made for Nancy Wilson and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin that Paul Moak had played for over 25 years. Following the incident, an outcry was made for the safe return of these instruments, emphasized by an emotional statement from Nancy Wilson expressing their irreplaceable value to the band. In the wake of the theft, Atlantic City police acted swiftly to investigate the situation. Surveillance footage revealed a suspect, Garfield Bennett, who was seen trying to sell the stolen instruments shortly after the theft occurred. After being identified, Bennett was apprehended and charged with burglary and theft. His arrest took place on South Kentucky Avenue, marking a significant step in the investigation led by local authorities, who remained dedicated to recovering the stolen property. The stolen instruments hold great sentimental value for the band. Nancy Wilson described them as extensions of their musical souls, highlighting the emotional impact the loss had on her and the band. The musicians have not only sought the safe return of their instruments but are offering a reward with no questions asked to encourage anyone with information to come forward. They have urged the public to help recover items that symbolize their love and dedication to music. With the investigation ongoing, the band continues to express their heartbreak over the situation while maintaining hope that the instruments will be returned. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino also issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to ensuring a secure environment for guests and performers, showing their support for the ongoing police work. This incident not only raises questions about security measures during events but also the broader implications of valuing musical heritage and the physical embodiments of artists’ work.