An individual who laced treats with tranquilliser and gave them to children at a summer camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males aged between nine and ten.
The defendant was arrested after eight minors and a grown-up became sick at the location in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the courthouse on recently.
Nevertheless, he denied one particular crime he was charged with, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was remanded in custody before a additional proceeding on late November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, outlined the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were staying at a summer camp which he managed.
The defendant played a "sweet game" with the minors, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and request they to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had engaged in this activity with the children "repeatedly", and minors had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in July 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "In the summer" his family member had suspicions about the situation, with valid cause.
"They chose" to investigate in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated objects including baby oil, Vaseline and medical needles were located, and his stepson notified the authorities about his suspicions.
She said the man continued to engage in the "sweet game" with six youngsters that evening - that Saturday - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that stage," she added.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, had stated that it was examining the police response of the incident.
Mrs Prior explained the minors were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so the family member notified the police again.
She stated the defendant then conducted the "candy game" in a room of five youngsters.
