A person who spiked treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a youth camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two children both nine and ten years old.
The defendant was arrested after eight minors and one adult experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the judicial center on recently.
However, he disputed one particular crime he was facing, which was concerning a young boy.
The defendant was kept in jail before a further hearing on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer program which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor said, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had conducted this practice with the boys "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She explained the man had been able to explain this over a long period as the minors being "overexcited from fun", until his family member had concerns in summer 2025.
The legal representative added: "Recently" his stepchild had suspicions about the situation, for good reason.
"They chose" to investigate in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC explained objects including lubricant, Vaseline and medical needles were discovered, and his stepchild notified the authorities about his suspicions.
She explained Ruben went on to play the "treat game" with six youngsters that time - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that point," she added.
The oversight body, the investigative body, had stated that it was reviewing the police response of the situation.
The legal representative stated the children were struggling to walk due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson notified the police a second time.
She explained the defendant then played the "candy game" in a room of five minors.
