Even musicians are part of the vulnerable citizens, as a legendary rock band was targeted by thieves in a liberal-run city, with criminals stealing two irreplaceable instruments right before their tour kickoff.
The brazen theft of these cherished instruments – including a custom-built purple Telecaster and a vintage 1966 mandolin – highlights the growing problem of property crime that continues to plague American cities.
The theft occurred at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City as the band Heart was preparing to launch their nationwide “Royal Flush Tour” on May 31.
The stolen instruments included Nancy Wilson’s custom-built purple sparkle baritone Telecaster and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin, which band member Paul Moak had played for over 25 years.
Atlantic City police are investigating the crime, while Guitar Center staff in the area have been alerted to watch for the distinctive instruments.
Hard Rock Atlantic City has stated that it is cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation, but no arrests have been made so far.
Heart, led by sisters Nancy and Ann Wilson, is offering a reward for information leading to the return of these instruments with “no questions asked.”
Nancy stated:
“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, and Paul’s mandolin has been with him for decades.”
She added, “We’re heartbroken, and we’re asking for their safe return—no questions asked. Their value to us is immeasurable.”
The band is known for hits like “Barracuda” and “Magic Man” and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy in 2023.
However, this unfortunate incident did not stop the show. Despite the theft, the band’s reunion tour – their first together in five years – is continuing as scheduled.
After the Atlantic City show, the tour moved on to Vienna, Virginia, and is set to run through August 30, concluding in Bethel, New York.
The theft comes after the band had already faced challenges with their reunion. The tour was previously delayed due to Ann Wilson’s surgery and preventative chemotherapy, which she has since successfully completed.
The theft of these treasured instruments is not just a loss to the band but represents an attack on America’s musical heritage and the artists who have shaped the cultural landscape.
Anyone with information about the stolen instruments is encouraged to contact the Atlantic City Police Department or the band through their official channels.
Music lovers and patriots alike hope that these instruments, which have helped create the soundtrack to many Americans’ lives, will soon be returned to their rightful owners.
