Salvation Army soldier to deny child sex charges

A 71 year-old former Salvation Army soldier has told a court he intends to deny charges that he sexually assaulted four boys during a period of 35 years.

William Edwin Steele was not required to plead to the string of charges put to him at Perth Magistrate's Court today, but said through his lawyer he would fight the allegations.

They allegedly involve the abuse of boys aged between 11 and 18 during the years 1963 to 1989.

Four separate alleged victims were named in court today, within charges that police say arise out of an "extensive investigation".

Police will allege the abuse occurred in Subiaco, Gosnells, Maddington, Beckenham and South Perth when the man was with the Salvation Army and associated with several churches.

Police said Mr Steele was a band member and assisted in organising trips and events.

In the 1980s Mr Steele also allegedly rented flat in South Perth where he is alleged to have encouraged boys to engage in sexual behaviour with him.

Mr Steele is facing three counts of indecent dealing with a boy under 14 years, two counts of indecent assault and one count of aggravated indecent assault.

He is also charged with exposing himself on four occasions in the Subiaco area during the 1960s.

Mr Steele will return to court in July.

Police are urging anyone with any information relating to any incidents during 1963 and 1989 to contact them.

If you are or have been a victim of child abuse, or if you have information about someone being abused, please call police on 131 444.