NATCHEZ – A 73-year-old Natchez man has been charged with the statutory rape of a teenager.

William McRaney, of 114 N. Temple Road, was arrested late Tuesday night by Natchez police on charges of exploitation of a child and statutory rape.

Police Chief Willie Huff said investigators received a tip from a friend of the 15-year-old female victim. &uot;The investigation developed enough probable cause for a search of his residence and his arrest on a warrant.&uot;

While searching McRaney’s house, police found a videotape of the girl, Huff said, adding about 30 other videotapes were also confiscated and are being reviewed for possible evidence.

Investigators believe McRaney became acquainted with the girl, but would not say how long the two had been in contact. Huff said the girls’ parents were unaware of the incident prior to the police investigation.

McRaney was released Wednesday on $20,000 bond for the exploitation charge and $25,000 for the statutory rape charge. He is scheduled to appear at a preliminary hearing on Jan. 3. Huff said the investigation is still under way and more charges against McRaney are possible.

McRaney faces up to 30 years in prison and/or up to a $10,000 fine for the statutory rape charge. He faces from two to 20 years in prison and a fine of $25,000 to $100,000 on the exploitation charge.