Stolen Gear?

A musician’s worst nightmare may be having their gear stolen before, after or even during a show. Many times this happens when the band is performing or making a stop of some sort and the van gets broken into. Why would a fan or a scab for that matter steal something from someone who probably can’t even afford to eat unless it is listed as part of their tour budget? Granted there are many bands that have made their way and don’t have to worry about monetary issues whatsoever, but for Pete’s sake…stealing is just not cool.

So, for those musicians that tour throughout the United States and have had their stuff stolen or fans that were at any of the shows and saw someone steal something from those bands, there is a site for you!

The website is called “Stolen Gear – get your stuff back” and is located at www.stolengear.org. You can find loads of information on stolen equipment that needs to be returned and you can post stolen gear if you are a victim.

The musician friendly site has been operating since early 2006. According to their website, “the site was created for the following reasons: 1) to publicize the rampant theft of musical instruments, 2) reunite people with their stolen possessions, 3) provide an internet accessible index of stolen gear for archival purposes, 4) bring greater awareness to the prevalence of thefts experienced by touring musicians, 5) bring gear thieves to justice.”

Log onto www.stolengear.org to post stolen gear or help find stolen gear. Of course, this is not a replacement for the law. If something is stolen and needs to be reported to the authorities, by all means, follow protocol. This site just helps spread the word.