WASHINGTON — Detectives arrested an 80-year-old Charles County man who they say may have sexually assaulted children over the span of several years.

On Wednesday, officials arrested Joseph Elmer Rohls, 80, after reports that he recently fondled a 4-year-old girl who was at his Newburg home with relatives. When detectives questioned Rohls, they said they learned he may have sexually assaulted other children between the ages of 4 and 7 years old.

The number of potential victims is not known, according to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone whose children may have had contact with Rohls, and who believes their child may have been assaulted by him, should contact the sheriff’s office at 301-609-6474.

Rohls was charged with sex abuse of a minor, third-degree sex offense, fourth-degree sex offense and second-degree assault.