Anene Booysen's alleged killer was previously involved in four criminal cases, the Bredasdorp Magistrate's Court heard on Tuesday.

Prosecutor Maria Marshall said Jonathan Davids, 22, was convicted of theft last February and received a five-year suspended sentence.

He also had three assault cases withdrawn against him in Bredasdorp, in September 2007, January 2008 and October 2011.

On the last charge, which was assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, Davids said he was innocent.

He was not asked about the other cases.

Davids and Johannes Kana, 21, stand accused of gang-raping, murdering and mutilating 17-year-old Booysen in the rural town at the start of the month.

Davids has pleaded not guilty to the crimes, which have been categorised as Schedule Six offences.

Pieter du Toit, for the defence, asked Davids where he would be getting the money for bail, should it be granted.

Davids replied that his family would be raising the money.

The lawyer said this surely meant they would be keeping a close eye on him, so that their money was not forfeited.

Davids agreed.

Du Toit also confirmed that Davids had no passport.

The court heard that his closest family member was an uncle in Grabouw.

Asked if he would go there should he flee, Davids said "yes".

Family and friends of Booysen gasped and started whispering furiously.