Heart guitarist Nancy Wilson has issued a statement following the arrest of a suspect in connection with the theft of the band’s instruments. She shared the statement on her Instagram.
Wilson expressed gratitude to law enforcement and supporters while acknowledging that the stolen instruments remain missing.
“We are deeply grateful to the Atlantic City Police Department, the Hard Rock organization, and everyone who came together to support us in the search of our stolen instruments,” Wilson said.
She continued with cautious optimism about the ongoing investigation.
“While we are encouraged by the progress made and thankful that an arrest has been made, our instruments have not yet been recovered,” she continued. “We remain hopeful that they will be returned to us.”
Police identified the suspect as 57-year-old Garfield Bennett from Pleasantville, New Jersey. Authorities reported that Bennett was captured on video walking around various locations in Atlantic City and attempting to sell the stolen instruments.
The theft has particularly impacted Heart as they prepare for their upcoming tour celebrating four decades of music. The stolen instruments hold deep personal significance for the band members beyond their monetary value.
Guitar World reported that the stolen items include a one-of-a-kind baritone Telecaster custom-made for Nancy Wilson and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin that has been with the band for 25 years. Wilson has described these instruments as “extensions of our musical souls,” highlighting their irreplaceable nature to the band’s creative process.
The timing of the theft proved especially challenging for Heart. Casino.org noted that the incident occurred just before the band was set to embark on their June tour. This tour marks a significant milestone, celebrating 40 years since the release of their self-titled album alongside fellow Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Cheap Trick and Squeeze.
The investigation gained momentum when Bennett was captured on surveillance footage attempting to sell the stolen instruments at various Atlantic City locations. NJ 101.5 revealed that the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s security team worked closely with Atlantic City Police Department to track down the suspect through video evidence.
Heart has offered a reward for the safe return of their instruments, emphasizing that the items cannot be replaced due to their custom nature and sentimental value. The band remains hopeful that the arrest will lead to the recovery of their cherished instruments before their tour continues.
