Man Arrested for Stealing Instruments from Heart
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Garfield Bennett, 57, faces charges after allegedly stealing a guitar and mandolin from the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel.
By Alice Meadow | ATLANTIC CITY – 2025/06/05 21:50:25
A New Jersey man is facing burglary and theft charges after allegedly stealing instruments from the band Heart. The incident occurred at the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel in Atlantic City.
Garfield Bennett, 57, of Pleasantville, NJ, was apprehended after the Atlantic City Police Department reviewed surveillance footage showing him attempting to sell items stolen from the band. According to NBC 10 Philadelphia, the thefts occurred on May 31, the eve of Heart’s Royal Flush summer tour.
The instruments were reportedly stolen shortly after being loaded into the Hard Rock casino & Hotel.Bennett was arrested in Atlantic City and is currently being held at the Atlantic County Justice Facility.
Authorities believe that Bennett has already sold one of the stolen instruments. They are urging the buyer to return it without penalty,warning that they could face charges for receiving stolen property. The specific instrument that was sold remains unclear, as does the current location of the other stolen instrument.
“If you’ve got the guitars, bring them back. Turn them in. No questions asked,” said Atlantic City Director of Public Safety Sean Riggin. “If we continue looking and we have to find them, there are absolutely going to be serious criminal charges.”
Nancy Wilson, a member of Heart, posted a plea on her Instagram account for the return of the stolen items. Bennett is accused of stealing what Nancy Wilson described as a “custom-built, one-of-a-kind purple sparkle baritone Telecaster with a hand-painted headstock, crafted specifically for [her]” and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin that band member Paul Moak has used for almost three decades.
“These instruments are more than just tools of our trade – they’re extensions of our musical souls,” Nancy Wilson said in her statement. “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.” She added, “We are deeply grateful to the Atlantic City Police Department, the Hard Rock institution, and everyone who came together to support us in the search for our stolen instruments. The outpouring of love and concern has been overwhelming, and we are truly touched by the strength and compassion of this community.”
Heart is continuing their tour with Todd Rungren, with their next concert scheduled in Vienna, Virginia.
“these instruments are more than just tools of our trade – they’re extensions of our musical souls.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do if my musical instrument is stolen?
- Report the theft to the local police instantly. Provide them with the instrument’s serial number, photos, and any distinguishing features. Also,consider reporting the theft to your insurance company.
- How can I prevent musical instrument theft?
- Keep a detailed record of your instruments, including serial numbers and photos.Consider using GPS tracking devices for valuable instruments. Never leave instruments unattended in vehicles or unsecured locations.
- What are the penalties for stealing a musical instrument?
- Penalties vary depending on the value of the instrument and local laws. Theft can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, with potential consequences including fines, jail time, and a criminal record.
