An individual who laced candy with sedative and provided them to youngsters at a youth camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two children aged nine and 10.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight children and an older person experienced illness at the facility in July.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he stood at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Yet, he disputed one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
The accused was held in detention prior to a further hearing on late November.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, outlined the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant played a "treat 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 conducted this practice with the young males "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had worries in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about the situation, for good reason.
"They chose" to examine in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and injection devices were found, and his family member contacted the authorities about his worries.
She stated the defendant proceeded to engage in the "treat game" with six boys that night - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not gone out by that point," she continued.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, had stated that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The legal representative stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson notified the law enforcement again.
She stated Ruben then played the "treat game" in a space of five minors.
