Police arrested a 57-year-old New Jersey man accused of stealing two prized instruments from the rock band Heart during their May 31 concert at the Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City.
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Garfield Bennett of Pleasantville allegedly snuck backstage and took a custom purple Telecaster guitar belonging to Nancy Wilson and a rare 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin owned by guitarist Paul Moak. Police said security footage showed Bennett not only leaving with the instruments but also attempting to sell them later in the city.
Thanks to that footage, detectives quickly identified Bennett. Officers apprehended him on Wednesday and charged him with burglary and theft.
Heart Offers Reward
Nancy Wilson
shared the news on social media just days after the theft, offering a reward for the instruments' return. One of the two items has reportedly been sold, although its current location remains unknown."These instruments are more than just tools of our trade -- they're extensions of our musical souls," Wilson said in a statement. "The baritone Tele was made uniquely for me, and Paul's mandolin has been with him for decades. Their value to us is immeasurable."
Authorities are asking for the public's help. Anyone with information should call the Atlantic City Police Department at 609-347-5766 or submit an anonymous tip by texting tip411 (847411).
Heart's Longstanding Legacy
Heart, founded in 1973 in Seattle, rose to fame with hits like "Barracuda," "Magic Man," and "Crazy on You." Their blend of hard rock and folk earned them a dedicated following and sustained chart success throughout the '70s and '80s.
The band went through lineup changes over the years, yet sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson remained the driving force. In 2013, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honored the original lineup for their contributions to music. Heart has sold over 50 million records globally and continues to draw crowds with its enduring catalog.
Despite the theft, the band remains focused on their music. Wilson hopes the instruments find their way home.
"We're heartbroken, but hopeful," she said. "We just want them back."
