A man who went on a spending spree using stolen bank cards and broke into Ballarat's new basketball stadium has been released from jail.
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Matthew Lucas, 25, was sentenced to 85 days time served and an 18 month community corrections order at the Ballarat Magistrates' Court on Tuesday for 13 charges.
Police prosecutor Senior Constable Ben Jones said Lucas used a stolen mastercard to purchase goods worth around $400 from Harvey Norman, Repco and a service station in May 20.
Police executed a search warrant on a Wendouree address on May 29 and located stolen number plates on his car, a motorbike that matched purchases on the stolen card, two stolen credit cards and other stolen items.
Senior Constable Jones told the court on May 28 Lucas attended the new Ballarat basketball stadium when construction was almost complete and stole a laptop and safety harness worth $10,000 belonging to Nicholson Construction employees.
On April 22 Lucas smashed into and stole a car from the Ballarat Railway Station car park. Forensic analysis of blood found in the car was matched to Lucas.
Defence lawyer Manny Brennan said Lucas had been living with his mother since he was released on bail in August and was supported in court by his parents and partner with their six-month-old son.
Mr Brennan said Lucas had made positive lifestyle changes, moving away from Ballarat to be more involved in family.
Magistrate Gregory Robinson sentenced Lucas to 85 days time served, three months loss of licence and an 18-month community corrections order, including supervision and drug treatment programs.
"You understand that if you breach this community correction order you can be resentenced on the whole lot," he said.
Lucas remains on bail for another charge and will return to court on February 10.
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