An individual who laced treats with sleeping medication and distributed them to youngsters at a summer camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two children who were nine and 10.
The defendant was detained after eight minors and an older person became sick at Stathern Lodge in July.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he stood at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
The accused was remanded in custody prior to a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, outlined Ruben's offending to the legal proceedings.
She explained his victims were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant engaged in a "treat game" with the children, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She told the court Ruben had engaged in this activity with the young males "for many years", and minors had previously become sick the following morning.
She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had suspicions in July 2025.
The prosecutor added: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about what was going on, for good reason.
"They chose" to investigate in the individual's items."
The prosecutor stated items including lubricant, Vaseline and syringes were found, and his family member contacted the police about his concerns.
She explained the defendant proceeded to engage in the "sweet game" with six boys that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the subsequent day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that time," she continued.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, had stated that it was reviewing the police response of the incident.
The legal representative explained the minors were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson contacted the authorities again.
She said the man then conducted the "sweet game" in a area of five minors.
