A MAN accused of rape among a raft of charges has been released on bail just in time for Christmas.
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Zeb Levi Nye had his bail application heard in Tamworth Local Court on Thursday.
The court was told a number of the 16 charges against the 30-year-old are expected to be withdrawn.
Police prosecutors said they weren't in a position to formally withdraw the charges at this time but they did not oppose bail.
Defence solicitor Geoffrey Archer said representations had been made by police that encouraged his client to apply for bail.
"The officer was very professional and courteous in his approach and I thank him for that," he said.
Magistrate Julie Soars granted bail on the condition Nye refrain from contacting any prosecution witnesses; reside at Manilla; and report to Manilla police station.
"I find Section 74 is satisfied; I grant Mr Nye bail on those conditions, he's aware needs to come back January 15," she said. He must also be of good behaviour while on bail.
Nye is yet to enter a plea to the 16 charges against him that include six counts of sexual intercourse without consent; sexual touching; three counts each of possession of an unregistered firearm; possession of an unauthorised firearm; and not keeping a firearm safe.
He was charged with the sexual assault of a woman in her home after police received information about an alleged sexual assault in Manilla in the early hours of November 7. Officers arrested Nye about three hours later.
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A crime scene was established and gel firearms were seized. Gel firearms are prohibited weapons due to their similarities to military weapons, the court has previously heard.
The matter was adjourned until January 15.