A man who contaminated treats with sedative and distributed them to youngsters at a summer program in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males aged nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the courthouse on recently.
Yet, he disputed a single sexual charge he was facing, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody prior to a further hearing on late November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, detailed Ruben's offending to the judicial body.
She said his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he managed.
Ruben conducted a "treat game" with the children, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to eat sweets "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge the man had conducted this practice with the children "for many years", and children had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She explained the defendant had been capable of justifying this for many years as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "This year his stepson had concerns about the situation, justifiably.
"They chose" to examine in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained materials including baby oil, ointment and medical needles were discovered, and his family member notified the authorities about his worries.
She said Ruben proceeded to play the "sweet game" with six boys that night - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"The police had not responded 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 situation.
Mrs Prior stated the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so the family member contacted the law enforcement again.
She explained the defendant then engaged in the "candy game" in a space of five youngsters.
