A man who spiked sweets with sedative and distributed them to children at a summer program in Leicestershire has admitted sexual offenses against two children both nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and one adult fell ill at the location in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he stood at the courthouse on Friday.
Nevertheless, he denied a single sexual charge he was facing, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was remanded in custody before a further hearing on 28 November.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, detailed the criminal behavior to the court.
She explained his targets were under-privileged children who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
The man played a "treat game" with the minors, Mrs Prior said, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She stated to the judge the man had played this game with the children "for many years", and minors had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She stated Ruben had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his stepson had concerns about what was going on, for good reason.
"They chose" to examine in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel said items including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his family member notified the authorities about his suspicions.
She explained the defendant proceeded to conduct the "candy game" with six children that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"The police had not responded by that point," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, earlier informed that it was investigating the police response of the incident.
The prosecutor stated the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson notified the authorities a second time.
She explained the defendant then played the "treat game" in a area of five youngsters.
