A man who contaminated sweets with sleeping medication and provided them to youngsters at a youth camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two boys aged nine and 10.
The defendant was detained after eight youngsters and one adult became sick at the location in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he was present at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he denied one particular crime he was facing, which was involving a young boy.
The accused was remanded in custody prior to a additional proceeding on late November.
'Candy game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, described Ruben's offending to the court.
She stated his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer camp which he ran.
The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel said, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to ingest treats "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had played this game with the children "over an extended period", and children had previously fallen ill the next day.
She said Ruben had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had worries in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his stepchild had concerns about the situation, justifiably.
"They decided to examine in the man's possessions."
Mrs Prior KC stated items including baby oil, ointment and medical needles were found, and his family member notified the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She stated the man proceeded to engage in the "treat game" with six children that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the next day.
"The police had not responded by that stage," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the stepson notified the police again.
She explained the defendant then engaged in the "treat game" in a room of five minors.
