Rebecca Mannion, 36, appeared via video link in Armidale Local Court from Silverwater Women’s Correction Centre after she was arrested late last week by detectives.

Police will allege Mannion was one of the ringleaders in the alleged assault on the Glen Innes man about 10.30pm on January 26.

The victim was allegedly set upon in Dundee St in what police said was a violent, alcohol-fuelled attack.

The victim managed to escape his alleged attackers when others came to his aid before he was taken to hospital for treatment.

Mannion is charged with affray, assault occasioning actual bodily harm in the company of others and aggravated sexual assault in company and inflict actual bodily harm.

Her solicitor Chelsea Schaefer told the court her client would make a fresh application for bail after five days in custody but Magistrate Karen Stafford refused to hear the bid for bail.

“The DPP is entitled to three days’ notice for a bail application,” she said.

“They weren’t given any notice.”

A brief of evidence detailing Mannion’s alleged involvement in the attack has been ordered but she will remain behind bars until the case returns to court in April.

Mannion’s was one of a string of arrests since the investigation was launched.

A 38-year-old woman, a 28-year-old woman and a 39-year-old man – all from Deepwater – have been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company and affray.

New England Detective Sergeant Matt Crotty said the incident was a particularly nasty one.

“This was a cowardly attack with a group of persons attacking a single person who was on the ground,” he said.

“We believe alcohol was a factor and we haven’t ruled out further arrests.”

Police canvassed the area and have spoken with a number of witnesses, but are urging the public to come forward.

“Police are still making an appeal for witnesses to this incident to contact local police or Crime Stoppers,” Detective Sergeant Crotty said.

“Anyone that was in the area, or heard or saw something out of the ordinary because every piece of evidence counts.”

The other three alleged offenders were granted conditional bail to front Glen Innes Local Court later this month.