Dawesville man jailed for storing stolen items worth $18,000

A MAN was sent to prison after stolen items, worth between $18,000 to $20,000, were found at his Dawesville property.

David James Matthews (38) pleaded guilty to several receiving charges and possession of stolen or unlawfully obtained property when he appeared in Mandurah Magistrates Court today.

Police prosecutor Tamara Read said there were burglaries from properties in Bouvard, Dawesville, Stake Hill, Golden Bay and Herron in 2017.

She said police searched Matthews’ house in August 2017 and found items that were stolen from the burglaries such as a ride-on-esky, a pink flamingo, a war medal, jewellery, wakeboards, a trumpet, power tools and school books.

Matthews’ lawyer said at the time of the offences his client had been having relationship difficulties, was suffering from depression and was using drugs.

He said Matthews believed his friend was like a Gumtree trader who made a profit from buying and selling items. Matthews allowed his friend to store the items at his house.

The lawyer said Matthews has stopped taking drugs, was working as a panel beater and spray painter and was remorseful.

In her sentencing remarks, Magistrate Anne Longden said she must take into consideration the sheer scale of the offences. She said the stolen items were of significant value and some had sentimental value to the owners.

Ms Longden said Matthews had a long history of offences involving dishonesty.

Matthews was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, backdated to account for three months already spent in custody. Ms Longden made Matthews eligible for parole and she ordered the return of the property.

Matthews’ pregnant wife cried out from the back of the court after the jail-term was handed down.