An individual who laced candy with sedative and distributed them to children at a summer program in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two boys who were nine and 10.
The defendant was detained after eight children and one adult became sick at Stathern Lodge in July.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he disputed a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was involving a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was held in detention prior to a further hearing on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, outlined Ruben's offending to the court.
She stated his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer camp which he managed.
The man conducted a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would access the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to eat sweets "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the defendant had engaged in this activity with the children "over an extended period", and minors had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She said the man had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had worries in July 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "This year his family member had suspicions about what was going on, for good reason.
"They resolved" to investigate in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC stated objects including infant oil, petroleum jelly and injection devices were found, and his stepson notified the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She stated Ruben went on to engage in the "treat game" with six boys that evening - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that point," she continued.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, previously told that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior explained the youngsters were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the stepson notified the authorities once more.
She said Ruben then engaged in the "candy game" in a room of five children.
