Next steps for alleged GoFundMe thief

The man accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars from a fundraiser for allegedly murdered woman Hannah McGuire has asked the court for more time while his attorney reviews the case.

Lachlan Morganti, 22, appeared briefly in the Ballarat Magistrates Court on Monday afternoon as his lawyer requested an adjournment in court.

She said she had only received the full evidence against Mr Morganti about an hour earlier and had “reviewed” the case but would need more time.

The lawyer said she would request additional documents from the police, including the recording of her interview and her bank statements.

Ms McGuire's mother, Debbie, watched the hearing remotely.

The request was granted by Magistrate Guillaume Bailin, and the accused was released on bail to return to court in August.

According to court documents, police allege Mr. Morganti stole more than $64,000 in cash intended for Debbie between April 25 and 30.

Hannah's body was found in a burnt-out car near State Forest Rd in the Ballarat suburbs on April 5, along with her ex-boyfriend, Lachlan Young, 21, who has been charged with murder.

Days after the teaching assistant's death, a GoFundMe campaign was set up to support the 23-year-old's family by Clunes Cricket Club, allegedly with the involvement of Mr Morganti.

Mr Morganti, of Winter Valley in Ballarat's western suburbs, was released on bail after being charged with a single count of theft on June 3.

In a statement last month, GoFundMe announced that it would refund all donors to the fundraiser.