PORT ORCHARD — A Poulsbo man has pleaded innocent to a first-degree child molestation charge.

Daniel Eldon Sluys, 53, was charged by Kitsap County prosecutors. He was arraigned Jan. 5.

In an interview with her therapist of nine months and an investigator, the alleged victim said Sluys touched her inappropriately on several occasions over a period of a year, and at other times behaved toward her in ways that made her uncomfortable.

“We’re saying it never happened,” Sluys’ attorney David Allen said.

Allen said the charge follows an ongoing dispute. The alleged incident occurred more than 10 years ago, according to charging documents. Allen said he is surprised it turned into a case.

“It’s so stale and unsupported,” he said.

The case began in September after the therapist alerted authorities.

According to charging documents, Sluys promised on Jan. 5 to appear in court. Sluys’ next court date is scheduled for Feb. 29. Trial is scheduled March 27.

If charged, Sluys could face about five years in prison, prosecutors say.