A man who laced sweets with sleeping medication and distributed them to children at a youth camp in the region has admitted sexual offenses against two young males both between nine and ten.
The accused was detained after eight youngsters and a grown-up became sick at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Yet, he refused to admit one particular crime he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
The defendant was held in detention ahead of a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, outlined Ruben's offending to the judicial body.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a youth camp which he ran.
The defendant engaged in a "treat game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were settling down and ask them to ingest treats "rapidly".
She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the children "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She explained the defendant had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the youngsters being "overexcited from fun", until his stepchild had suspicions in summer 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "This year his family member had suspicions about the activities, with valid cause.
"They decided to have a look in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC stated objects including infant oil, ointment and syringes were found, and his stepson contacted the police about his worries.
She stated the defendant proceeded to conduct the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the next day.
"Authorities" had not gone out by that point," she stated further.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, had stated that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The legal representative explained the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member called the police again.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "candy game" in a area of five minors.
