Jail for Vic bikie over stolen truck parts

A senior Hells Angels bikie who has been committing crimes for 40 years is back behind bars after dealing in almost $250,000 worth of stolen truck parts.

Victoria Police found the swag of machinery when they raided Peter "Skitzo" Hewat's home and business in 2013.

An engine, four wheels, two sets of brake calipers and pads and a tail shaft, all from a stolen Holden, were found in the tray of a tip truck at the 60-year-old's Mickleham home in Melbourne's north.

A tow truck at Hewat's heavy haulage business in Craigieburn was found to be fitted with several parts from a stolen prime mover, and police also unearthed a Caterpillar engine that had been stolen in 2008.

Judge David Parsons said Hewat was negligent in considering whether the parts he received were proceeds of crime.

"Clearly, it behoves anybody in your position, who was maintaining a business of rebuilding trucks, to ensure that the parts you are using are appropriately come by and appropriate to be used in the construction of reconditioned trucks," he said in written sentencing remarks on Friday.

Hewat was handed a one-year sentence after pleading guilty in the County Court of Victoria to three counts of dealing with the proceeds of crime.

He was found not guilty of nine other charges.

The court heard Hewat had a difficult childhood and had been adopted by associates of Anne Hamilton-Byrne, leader of notorious cult The Family.

His business, which had a gross profit of $100,000 a month, closed after he was taken into custody.

Hewat has prior convictions for larceny, theft and handling stolen goods.

Judge Parsons said he had only modest chances for rehabilitation.

"You have now been committing crimes over a very lengthy period, somewhat in excess of 40 years, and seem to reveal no or very little commitment to changing that pattern of behaviour," he said.

Hewat, a member of the Hells Angels, has been in maximum security ahead of his sentence.

He has served more than 250 days over the latest offences.