An individual who laced sweets with sleeping medication and gave them to youngsters at a summer program in Leicestershire has admitted sexual crimes against two boys both nine and ten years old.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and a grown-up became sick at the location in July.
The senior citizen, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
However, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was held in detention prior to a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, detailed the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he operated.
The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel explained, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She stated to the judge Ruben had conducted this practice with the young males "over an extended period", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She said the man had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had worries in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "Recently" his stepchild had suspicions about the activities, justifiably.
"They resolved" to examine in the defendant's belongings."
The prosecutor explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepson alerted the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She stated Ruben proceeded to engage in the "candy game" with six boys that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"The police had not gone out by that stage," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, had stated that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the incident.
The prosecutor explained the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member notified the authorities once more.
She explained Ruben then engaged in the "treat game" in a room of five youngsters.
