An individual who laced treats with tranquilliser and gave them to youngsters at a youth camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two boys who were nine and ten years old.
The accused was taken into custody after eight minors and one adult experienced illness at the location in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was facing, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, handling the case, detailed Ruben's offending to the legal proceedings.
She stated his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were attending a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant engaged in a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor said, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and request they to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had conducted this practice with the young males "for many years", and minors had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She explained the man had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had suspicions in July 2025.
The prosecutor added: "This year his stepson had suspicions about the situation, justifiably.
"They decided to examine in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor stated items including baby oil, ointment and medical needles were found, and his family member notified the authorities about his concerns.
She stated the defendant went on to play the "candy game" with six youngsters that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"The police had not arrived by that time," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, previously told that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the situation.
Mrs Prior explained the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the stepson notified the authorities once more.
She explained the defendant then engaged in the "candy game" in a area of five youngsters.
