SAN DIEGO — A former Cub Scout leader who often invited children to his suburban home to swim denied Wednesday that he is the former host of a children’s television show who went by the name “Mr. Wonder” and is wanted in Louisiana on charges that he sexually abused children during a camping retreat nearly four decades ago.

A man identified by authorities as Frank John Selas III contested that he is the 76-year-old fugitive. San Diego Superior Court Judge David Szumowski ordered him to be held without bail and scheduled a hearing for Feb. 11 to establish identity.

The man arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service at his home Monday in Bonita, near San Diego, goes by Frank Szeles and advertised swim lessons and other activities for young children. Authorities say the former television host changed his name.

In the late 1970s, Selas hosted the “Mr. Wonder” show on KNOE-TV in north Louisiana. In 1979, the Rapides Parish Sheriff ’s Office fielded complaints from parents who accused Selas of abusing their children.

Selas, then 39, allegedly fled the country before investigators could arrest him. He is charged with two counts of obscene behavior with a juvenile.

Family of the man arrested Monday was in the courtroom but didn’t speak with reporters. The man’s attorney, Marc Carlos, read a statement from the family that pleaded for privacy.

“Despite the allegations, for 37 years, Frank Szeles has been a husband, father and grandfather and has always provided for his family,” the family said. “He is well-loved, respected and supported by his family and friends and the community here in San Diego.”

Carlos said the developments were “a shock to everyone.”