Hastings man Caleb Pavlovic steals car, launches temper tantrum at Frankston police station
A highly-skilled BMX rider who chucked a tantrum in custody once escaped from the cells at Frankston Magistrates’ Court. But a sad series of events led to the 22-year-old’s offending, it has been revealed.
South East
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A car thief who broke a chair during a temper tantrum at Frankston police station has walked from prison.
Caleb Pavlovic, 22, pleaded guilty in the County Court on Tuesday to a string of crimes including theft of motor vehicle and criminal damage.
Pavlovic — who was the subject of a manhunt after escaping custody at Frankston Magistrates Court in 2018 — landed back behind bars after stealing a car and petrol from Seaford on March 13 last year.
The court heard Pavlovic from Hastings, was in the interview room at Frankston police station when he exploded and broke a chair which was bolted to the floor.
Judge Sarah Leighfield said Pavlovic suffered from serious intellectual disabilities and poor mental health.
The court heard the highly skilled BMX rider suffered from foetal alcohol exposure.
Ms Leighfield said Pavlovic battled mental health issues including depression and anxiety and experienced difficulty comprehending written information beyond Grade 1 level.
“You have a lengthy and serious criminal history for someone so young,” Ms Leighfield told Pavlovic.
“Your life to date has been a difficult one.”
Ms Leighfield said Pavlovic and the community would benefit if he was to complete a community corrections order and disability support plan.
The court was told Pavlovic had strong support from foster mother and girlfriend and planned to move away from associates in the Frankston area.
“(You’re) in the best position you have ever been in … to limit the impact of your impairments,” Ms Leighfield said.
Pavlovic was convicted and jailed for 522 days, reckoned as time served, and released on an 18-month community corrections order.
He was also fined $400 and disqualified from driving for three months.
brittany.goldsmith@news.com.au
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