CASTLE ROCK, Colo. -- A former youth group volunteer at the Denver Church of Christ who was arrested last December on child sex charges had come into contact with hundreds of children, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office said Monday.

William "Bill" McLaughlin, 45, remained in the Douglas County Detention Facility on a $500,000 bond on multiple felony counts that included sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust.

Detectives said that McLaughlin was a youth group volunteer and had been associated with the Denver Church of Christ for up to 20 years. During that time, he had contact with hundreds of children. The independent church is part of a fellowship of churches that practice the same expression of Christianity and has a close relationship with a sister church in Fort Collins, according to church leadership.

"The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is investigating because McLaughlin lived in multiple locations in Douglas County for several years, and that is where some of the crimes took place" said Deputy Cocha Heyden, Public Information Officer.

"It is very tragic to hear about these types of cases, especially when it involves someone who is put in a position to care for and guide our youth. It is a great reminder for parents to talk to their children about issues involving these types of cases and how important open and honest communication is," said Sheriff Dave Weaver.

John Lusk, senior minister at the Denver Church of Christ, issued a statement Monday evening, saying church leadership had been informed in late December about "an offense against a young man" and had been cooperating with the investigation.

"The Church leadership is very concerned by these allegations and the harm these actions bring to all involved," the statement said. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to this victim, his family, as well as all others concerned and affected by these events."

Sheriff's officials said the investigation is continuing. Detectives are asking anyone who has information about additional victims, or any inappropriate conduct by McLaughlin, to call the Douglas County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division at 303-660-7548 and ask for Detective Dea Aragon or Detective Christine Brite.