Atlantic City police recover stolen instrument of band Heart using license plate readers and surveillance footage.
Police in Atlantic City have successfully recovered a distinctive purple Telecaster guitar belonging to Nancy Wilson, the renowned musician from the iconic rock band Heart, following a theft at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena. The theft occurred during the band’s summer tour launch, titled “An Evening with Heart.” According to authorities, a suspect identified as 57-year-old Garfield Bennett from Pleasantville, New Jersey, unlawfully exited the venue with two valuable instruments: the unique sparkle baritone guitar and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin.
In a heartfelt Instagram appeal, Wilson expressed the importance of the instruments, stating that they are extensions of her musical identity and have significant personal value. The purple Telecaster was specially crafted for her, while the mandolin had been a reliable companion to Paul Moak, the band’s guitarist, for many years.
Following the theft, venue management redirected all inquiries to the police. Details remain sparse regarding Bennett’s ability to leave the venue with the instruments, raising questions about security measures in place.
Investigators traced Bennett through surveillance footage, capturing him as he attempted to sell the stolen instruments at various locations throughout the city. Upon his arrest, police discovered that one of the stolen instruments had already been sold, while the whereabouts of the other remained unclear. Subsequent surveillance footage revealed Bennett giving the guitar to a woman who had driven away with it. Law enforcement used license plate recognition technology to identify and locate the woman’s vehicle. She later informed police that she had purchased the guitar and willingly returned the instrument.
Local authorities had previously warned that any individuals found in possession of the stolen instruments would face charges for receiving stolen property. However, no information about such charges was released following the recovery of the guitar, and police have not provided any updates on their inquiry concerning the mandolin.
The recovered guitar is now in the custody of Hard Rock Atlantic City, which plans to return it to Wilson and her band. Meanwhile, investigations continue, with police still actively searching for the missing mandolin. The unfolding saga highlights both the deep ties musicians have with their instruments and the evolving nature of personal property protection in public venues.
As the story develops, it poses significant questions regarding security measures at large events and the risks artists face regarding their valued possessions. Media News Source will continue to monitor the situation for any further updates.
