An individual who spiked sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a youth camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two young males who were between nine and ten.
The accused was detained after eight youngsters and an older person experienced illness at the location in the summer month.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
However, he disputed one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
The defendant was held in detention prior to a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, outlined the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She explained his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer program which he managed.
The man conducted a "sweet game" with the minors, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She told the court Ruben had engaged in this activity with the children "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the subsequent day.
She explained the man had been able to explain this repeatedly as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.
The legal representative continued: "Recently" his family member had worries about the activities, for good reason.
"They chose" to examine in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel stated materials including infant oil, ointment and syringes were located, and his stepson alerted the police about his concerns.
She stated Ruben went on to play the "sweet game" with six youngsters that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that point," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The prosecutor said the minors were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member notified the police once more.
She said the defendant then engaged in the "sweet game" in a area of five youngsters.
