A Geelong man has admitted to a series of criminal offences including drug possession and theft during a recent court appearance that revealed details of his crime spree across the region.
Courtroom admissions reveal crime details
Lawrence Alexander Butler, aged 31, appeared in Geelong Magistrates' Court where he pleaded guilty to multiple charges stemming from incidents that occurred between December 2023 and February 2024. The court heard how Butler's criminal activities spanned several locations throughout Geelong and involved various types of offences.
Among the charges Butler admitted to were theft from a motor vehicle, handling stolen goods, drug possession, and driving while disqualified. The prosecution outlined how Butler targeted vehicles in the Geelong area, stealing property from unsuspecting residents.
Pattern of criminal behaviour emerges
Police prosecutors detailed how Butler's crime spree included stealing a bank card from a vehicle in the Whittington area on December 13, 2023. The stolen card was subsequently used in multiple fraudulent transactions, adding to the financial impact on the victim.
Butler's criminal activities continued into the new year, with court documents revealing he was caught driving while disqualified on two separate occasions in January 2024. These driving offences occurred despite Butler being well aware of his disqualified status, showing a disregard for court orders.
When police apprehended Butler on February 8, 2024, they discovered he was in possession of illicit drugs, specifically cannabis, leading to additional drug-related charges. The combination of theft, driving, and drug offences painted a picture of persistent criminal behaviour that required court intervention.
Legal proceedings and pending sentence
During the court hearing, defence lawyer Kylie Roper represented Butler and indicated her client's willingness to cooperate with the legal process. The guilty pleas entered by Butler mean the case can proceed directly to sentencing without the need for a contested hearing.
Magistrate Michael Coghlan has ordered a community corrections assessment to be completed before determining Butler's final sentence. This assessment will help the court understand Butler's background and rehabilitation prospects when deciding an appropriate punishment.
The case has been adjourned until July 29, 2024, when Butler will return to court for sentencing. During this period, authorities will compile the necessary reports to assist the magistrate in making an informed decision about the appropriate consequences for Butler's actions.
Butler remains on bail while awaiting his sentencing date, with conditions likely imposed to ensure he doesn't reoffend during this interim period. The court will consider all aspects of his offences when determining the final outcome next month.
