A man facing a charge of common assault has been placed back in custody on the recommendation of his lawyer.

Tereanu William Teava was only released from custody into the care of his grandfather last month.

When he appeared in the Criminal Court on Thursday, his lawyer Mona Ioane said it had been very difficult for him to monitor his client’s movements.  

Ioane said he had spoken with Teava’s grandfather, who said his grandson would disappear for up to three days at a time.

Ioane said he was not ready to enter a plea on behalf of his client. 

Police said there were avenues which could be explored, including a remand in custody.

Justice of the Peace Nadine Newnham then asked Ioane if there was a reason why he was not ready to enter a plea.

Ioane said he had not had a chance to meet with Teava, as he believed his client was eluding him.

Ioane then said he had just heard the new Te Puna Tiaki – Wellness Unit at Rarotonga Hospital had just opened, and suggested it could be an option.

The grandfather's residence was not an option.

JP Newnham then asked if Teava was complying with his conditions to report to Te Marae Ora every Friday.

Ioane said his client was not complying with his bail conditions and that it might be worth considering remanding him in custody into the care of Te Puna Tiaki.

JP Newnham then asked the court if anyone knew about the new mental health facility.

Cook Islands News confirmed the facility had opened on Friday last week.

JP Newnham then remanded Teava back into custody to give authorities time to get him into the new mental health facility.

The matter was adjourned to May 18.