A suspect has been arrested in connection with the theft of instruments belonging to the rock band Heart. The items were taken from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on May 30.
The stolen items included a guitar and a mandolin, both crucial to the band, which was preparing to launch its “An Evening with Heart” tour at the venue. The theft was discovered just before the band’s scheduled performance, when the instruments were found missing after being set up the day before the show.
In a statement, the band described the stolen instruments as “irreplaceable” and expressed their heartbreak over the loss. The police investigation into the theft began immediately.
On June 5, the Atlantic City Police Department announced that they had identified a suspect. Garfield Bennett, 57, of Pleasantville, New Jersey, was reportedly captured on surveillance footage attempting to sell the stolen instruments in various locations across the city.
Bennett has been charged with burglary and theft. Authorities have not confirmed whether he has retained legal counsel or entered a plea at this time.
Before the arrest, Heart had offered a reward for the return of their prized instruments. Band member Nancy Wilson emphasized the personal significance of the stolen items, stating, “These instruments are more than just tools of our trade—they’re extensions of our musical souls. The baritone Tele was made uniquely for me. We’re heartbroken, and we’re asking for their safe return—no questions asked. Their value to us is immeasurable.”
The band and police continue to work on recovering the stolen instruments.
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