A man who laced treats with tranquilliser and gave them to youngsters at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two young males who were nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and a grown-up experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.
The elderly man, from that region, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on recently.
Nevertheless, he refused to admit one particular crime he was charged with, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was kept in jail prior to a additional proceeding on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, detailed Ruben's offending to the court.
She said his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a summer program which he managed.
The defendant engaged in a "sweet game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were settling down and tell them to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had played this game with the young males "over an extended period", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She explained the man had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overexcited from fun", until his stepchild had concerns in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "Recently" his stepchild had concerns about the situation, with valid cause.
"They chose" to investigate in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor stated materials including lubricant, petroleum jelly and injection devices were located, and his family member notified the police about his suspicions.
She explained the defendant went on to conduct the "sweet game" with six boys that time - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that time," she added.
The police watchdog, the police conduct office, had stated that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the situation.
The legal representative said the youngsters were struggling to walk due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson contacted the authorities once more.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "treat game" in a room of five minors.
