MORAGA — A 28-year-old youth soccer coach here was arrested in an undercover police sting targeting adults who try to sexually abuse children they meet through the internet, according to authorities.

Alejandro Sanchez, a coach at the Lamorinda Soccer Club, was arrested Friday for allegedly trying to meet an undercover cop who was posing as a minor. In an email to parents on Saturday, the soccer club said Sanchez had been placed on unpaid administration leave and that “steps have been taken to prevent him from having any access to the soccer club and playing fields.”

Authorities Sunday confirmed Sanchez’s arrest and say charges could be filed this week. Sanchez was released from jail after posting an undisclosed bail amount, police said.

The Lamorinda Soccer Club offers programs for children across all age groups, and competes in tournaments across California. The club’s email to parents says before Sanchez was hired, he “underwent a background check—both through US Club Soccer as well as US Soccer.”

The email also reminds readers that Sanchez is presumed innocent and that his arrest “did not involve an actual minor victim, but was based on alleged communications with an undercover police officer.” The club will conduct its own investigation, the email says.

Sanchez’s arrest is part of a long-term undercover operation led by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s office, which has resulted in several arrests since late 2017. In at least two cases, the investigations have netted local school teachers. Someone who is arrested for allegedly trying to sexually abuse a minor after meeting them through the internet can be charged with child enticement in federal court, a potential life offense.