A man who laced sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has admitted sexual offences against two young males aged nine and ten years old.
The defendant was detained after eight minors and an older person became sick at the location in July.
The 76-year-old, from that region, pleaded guilty to a multiple criminal counts when he was present at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Yet, he disputed one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was against a young boy.
The accused was held in detention prior to a additional proceeding on late November.
'Treat game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, detailed the defendant's actions to the court.
She explained his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he operated.
Ruben played a "treat game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel explained, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had engaged in this activity with the boys "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She stated Ruben had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained materials including infant oil, Vaseline and syringes were found, and his stepchild alerted the law enforcement about his worries.
She stated Ruben proceeded to conduct the "candy game" with six youngsters that evening - that Saturday - and they were all sick the next day.
"The police had not responded by that stage," she continued.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, had stated that it was investigating the police response of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so the stepson called the authorities a second time.
She explained the man then played the "sweet game" in a space of five youngsters.
