An individual who laced treats with tranquilliser and gave them to youngsters at a summer camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two children who were nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight children and an older person experienced illness at the facility in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
However, he denied one of the sexual offences he was facing, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
Ruben was held in detention prior to a further hearing on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, handling the case, outlined the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She explained his those affected 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 enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to ingest treats "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the defendant had played this game with the boys "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the next day.
She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the minors being "overexcited from fun", until his stepson had suspicions in July 2025.
The prosecutor continued: "In the summer" his stepchild had concerns about the activities, justifiably.
"They resolved" to examine in the individual's items."
The legal counsel explained materials including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were located, and his stepchild notified the police about his suspicions.
She stated the man went on to play the "sweet game" with six children that time - that Saturday - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that point," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, earlier informed that it was reviewing the police response of the events.
Mrs Prior explained the minors were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson called the law enforcement once more.
She said the defendant then played the "sweet game" in a space of five youngsters.
