Matthew Pring released from custody after Ballarat Magistrates’ Court hearing

A serial thief has been at it again, taking what doesn’t belong to him across Ballarat, including booze, a phone charger and groceries.

Matthew Pring faced Ballarat Magistrates' Court on July 17, 2023. Photo: Facebook

A serial thief has been at it again, stealing from shops across Ballarat, admitting in court it had been a “s--t start to the year”.

Matthew Pring, 41, appeared in the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court on Monday after committing several thefts across Ballarat.

The court heard that on December 9, 2022, Pring entered a Ballarat bottle shop and began to select bottles of spirits and wine.

The shop supervisor became aware that he was likely to steal and stood between him and the doorway.

Pring managed to leave with a four-pack of alcohol.

On January 1 this year, Pring entered a petrol station on Main Rd.

He browsed the store for 15 minutes and had a brief conversation with the manager before hiding a $30 phone charger in his jacket and leaving.

On February 24, he filled a bag of groceries worth more than $200 at Ballarat Central Woolworths, exited the shop, and fled towards Dana St.

Then on April 5, he stole two blowtorches worth about $110 from Bunnings on Creswick Rd.

The court heard Pring could have schizophrenia and was a recovering drug addict with “myriad issues”.

Particularly due to Pring’s age, Magistrate Simon Zebrowski said: “There comes a time when you run out of rope, as sad as it is.”

Nevertheless, he gave Pring a community correction order and sentenced him to 76 days in prison, already served.

“I have to say, this is the last CCO you’re going to get,” Mr Zebrowski said.

From the dock, Pring said: “I apologise … s--t start to the year”.