A man pleaded not guilty Monday in 7th Circuit Court to 12 counts of rape.

Monty Zimaga, 19, is charged with six counts of second-degree rape, which is defined as rape by use of force, threats or coercion.

For each of those counts, Zimaga is charged with an alternative count of fourth-degree rape which is defined as having sex with someone between 13 and 16 years old and being more than three years older than that person.

An alternative count means Zimaga cannot be convicted of both counts.

Each count of second-degree rape carries up to 50 years in prison upon conviction. Each count of fourth-degree rape carries up to 15 years in prison.

Prosecutors said the rapes took place from January to December 2007.

Judge Thomas Trimble set a status hearing in the case for March 17.

Zimaga remains in custody at Pennington County Jail.