An individual who laced treats with sedative and distributed them to children at a youth camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males aged between nine and ten.
The defendant was arrested after eight children and an older person became sick at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on recently.
Yet, he denied one particular crime he was facing, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was held in detention before a further hearing on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, outlined Ruben's offending to the judicial body.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer camp which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "treat game" with the children, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She told the court Ruben had conducted this practice with the young males "over an extended period", and minors had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She explained the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in summer 2025.
The prosecutor continued: "This year his family member had worries about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel said items including infant oil, Vaseline and syringes were discovered, and his family member alerted the authorities about his suspicions.
She stated the defendant proceeded to play the "sweet game" with six boys that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the subsequent day.
"The police had not responded by that point," she continued.
The oversight body, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the events.
The prosecutor said the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the family member notified the authorities again.
She said Ruben then played the "candy game" in a area of five minors.
