A person who laced treats with sedative and distributed them to youngsters at a summer camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two children both between nine and ten.
The defendant was detained after eight children and an older person became sick at Stathern Lodge in July.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.
However, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was held in detention prior to a additional proceeding on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, handling the case, detailed the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She stated his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer program which he operated.
The man engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the children "for many years", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She stated the defendant had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had suspicions in July 2025.
The legal representative continued: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about the activities, for good reason.
"They chose" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC stated items including lubricant, ointment and medical needles were found, and his family member contacted the police about his suspicions.
She said the man proceeded to engage in the "candy game" with six boys that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that time," she continued.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The prosecutor stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so the stepson notified the police once more.
She explained Ruben then conducted the "sweet game" in a space of five minors.
