A Deer Park man pleaded not guilty Wednesday to raping a 16-year-old girl.

Prosecutors say 28-year-old Philip Evanson had a sexual relationship with a teenager between October and December 2017.

They say the victim became pregnant and had an abortion a few months later.

The alleged victim's father, who wished to conceal his identity, says Evanson was a close friend of his older son and was frequently around the family. The father says his daughter was 15 when Evanson began having sex with her.

Evanson was arrested Tuesday after nine months of searching. Police say a home on Adams Street in Deer Park was his last known address. Court documents show that the alleged rape took place there.

A family member of Evanson's didn't say anything in court, and his defense attorney refused to comment on specifics of the case or on the relationship between him and the alleged victim.

Evanson's bail was set at $35,000 or $75,000 bond. He's due back in court Friday.

The girl's father says she is now a high school senior who is struggling to move on with her life.

In 2008, Evanson pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault and felony robbery. He spent a total of three years behind bars.