A person who laced treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to youngsters at a summer camp in the region has admitted sexual crimes against two boys aged nine and 10.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight children and an older person fell ill at the facility in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Yet, he denied one particular crime he was facing, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was held in detention before a further hearing on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the defendant's actions to the judicial body.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
Ruben engaged in a "treat game" with the minors, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and ask them to consume candy "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the man had conducted this practice with the young males "for many years", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She said the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepchild had concerns in summer 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "In the summer" his stepson had suspicions about the situation, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC explained materials including lubricant, ointment and syringes were found, and his stepchild notified the police about his worries.
She explained the man continued to engage in the "treat game" with six youngsters that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that stage," she added.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was investigating the police response of the events.
The legal representative stated the minors were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the family member notified the police once more.
She said Ruben then engaged in the "sweet game" in a space of five children.
