Custody only option: judge

A 19-year-old Wairarapa man who police say continues to offend while on bail to "fund his drug habit" was remanded in custody last week.

Charlie Belvie appeared in Masterton District Court on May 23 for new charges of breaching bail and burglary.

At the time of the alleged offences he was on bail for active charges involving possession of cannabis for supply, possession of methamphetamine, unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and four charges of burglary.

He has been granted bail numerous times despite police opposition and was found outside Akura Rd, Masterton, on May 22 in breach of his bail.

Defence lawyer Louise Elder said Belvie had been on his way to Palmerston North, where his mother lives.

She said Belvie had not been questioned in relation to alleged burglaries and had not faced any fresh charges since May 15.

"The bail opposition makes it difficult for him to get bail but he is subject to S15 of the Bail Act," Ms Elder said.

S15(1) of the Bail Act requires a court to release a 17- to 19-year-old defendant on bail, subject to any conditions it imposes, if that young defendant has not previously been sentenced to imprisonment.

Prosecuting Sergeant Garry Wilson said Belvie's history of breaching bail was extensive.

Judge Anthony Walsh said he had no other option but to remand Belvie in custody.

"It appears to me on the evidence before me ... that the defendant will commit further offences while on bail.

"He has not complied with his bail conditions and I'd consider there is a risk he will fail to appear.

"The time has come where we have to get to grips with what you're up to," Judge Walsh said.

Belvie was remanded in custody to appear in Masterton District Court today.