A man allegedly went on a theft spree stealing more than $100,000 worth of items including a tractor, a World War I medal and a caravan, a court heard.
Mitchell Davies, 26, appeared at the Ballarat Magistrates Court via video-link from a corrections facility. He is facing more than 40 charges including burglary, theft of vehicles and breaching a Community Corrections Order.
Police prosecutor Senior Constable Steve Kent told the court police alleged Davies began the spate of thefts early November last year with the crime spree ending when he was arrested on February 10.
Senior Constable Kent told the court in one alleged theft on November 24 last year, Davies broke into a business in Old Melbourne Road in Millbrook and stole more than $50,000 worth of items including a cheque book, car and power tools.
In another incident, Senior Constable Kent alleged Davies stole a caravan parked outside a house. The court heard Davies drove off with the caravan connected to his car and was spotted “driving erratically” nearby by police. Police also alleged on November 15 last year, Davies ransacked a house in Sulky, stealing an engagement ring, a World War 1 Gallipoli battle medal and a Toyota Land Cruiser parked in the driveway.
In other alleged incidents Senior Constable Kent told the court Davies broke into homes, businesses and farms stealing cars, jewellery and thousands of dollars worth of wool and timber.
Defence lawyer Manny Brennan told the court almost all of the charges were "circumstantial".
Magistrate Catherine Lamble said Davies had various links to the crimes, including stolen items being found in his possession.
Ms Lamble said it was inappropriate Davies was sentenced during Thursday's hearing given the complex nature of the case and volume of charges he was facing.
“Mr Davies needs to be present and appropriate time needs to be given to this case,” she said.
Davies was ordered to appear in court in person for a special mentions hearing on July 12.
