A man who spiked sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a youth camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two children who were nine and 10.
The accused was detained after eight youngsters and an older person fell ill at Stathern Lodge in July.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at the courthouse on the end of the week.
Yet, he denied one particular crime he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody before a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, detailed the defendant's actions to the judicial body.
She stated his victims were under-privileged children who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "treat game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to ingest treats "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the defendant had played this game with the children "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously become sick the following morning.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepchild had suspicions in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They decided to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
The prosecutor said items including infant oil, Vaseline and syringes were found, and his family member contacted the authorities about his suspicions.
She stated the man went on to engage in the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the police conduct office, had stated that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the incident.
Mrs Prior explained the children were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the stepson contacted the law enforcement again.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "sweet game" in a space of five children.
