An individual who laced candy with tranquilliser and provided them to minors at a summer program in the region has confessed to sexual offenses against two children who were nine and 10.
The accused was taken into custody after eight children and an older person became sick at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was facing, which was involving a young boy.
Ruben was held in detention prior to a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, handling the case, detailed the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he ran.
Ruben played a "treat game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel stated, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had conducted this practice with the young males "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She stated the defendant had been able to explain this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had worries in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "Recently" his family member had concerns about the situation, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
The prosecutor explained materials including baby oil, ointment and medical needles were discovered, and his stepson notified the police about his worries.
She stated Ruben proceeded to conduct the "treat game" with six children that night - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that point," she added.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, had stated that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the minors were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the stepson notified the police again.
She explained the man then conducted the "sweet game" in a area of five minors.
