Suspect arrested for stealing instruments from rock band Heart at New Jersey venue

A suspect has been apprehended in the theft of two unique musical instruments belonging to members of the iconic rock band Heart that were taken from a New Jersey venue last weekend.

Atlantic City authorities confirmed that a 57-year-old man from Pleasantville was detained following a review of surveillance footage. The suspect was recorded attempting to sell the stolen instruments at various locations in the city, managing to sell one while the whereabouts of the other remained unknown. He has been charged with burglary and theft in connection with the case.

The instruments, including a custom-built purple sparkle baritone Telecaster guitar with a personalized headstock for band member Nancy Wilson, and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin that has been a staple in band member Paul Moak’s performances for over two decades, were pilfered as the band prepared for the An Evening With Heart tour at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.

Nancy Wilson expressed the emotional attachment the band had to their stolen instruments, reiterating that they are more than mere musical gear but rather extensions of their artistic souls. The heartfelt plea for the safe return of the stolen items came with a reward being offered for any information leading to their recovery. The Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy, have been creating music together since the 1970s, producing classic hits like “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You,” and “Alone.” Their enduring impact on the music industry was honored in 2023 with a Recording Academy lifetime achievement award.

The violation of the band’s personal and professional tools was not only a financial blow but an emotional one, as their loss was described as immeasurable by the group. Heart has etched their place in rock history with timeless hits and memorable performances, earning them a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy.

This regrettable incident serves as a reminder of the sentimental value carried by musical instruments beyond their monetary worth, as they hold a significant place in the hearts and creative spirits of the artists who wield them on stage. The ongoing legal proceedings and recovery efforts underscore the lengths bands like Heart are willing to go to reclaim vital parts of their craft and identity stolen through criminal activities.