NATCHEZ — An Adams County man could face trial for the alleged rape of two preteen girls.

Joseph Riley Hoke, 43, 14 Mallory Road, was bound over to the grand jury Tuesday after waiving his preliminary hearing for two counts of statutory rape and possession of a deadly weapon, Justice Court Judge Charlie Vess said.

Hoke’s case will now go to the grand jury, which will decide whether to indict him. The grand jury next meets in March.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office arrested Hoke in December for reportedly raping two girls, one who is 12 years old and another who’s 11 years old.

Hoke’s bond is set at $150,000. He was being held in the Adams County Jail Wednesday.

If convicted, Hoke could face life in prison.