A man who spiked candy with sleeping medication and gave them to children at a youth camp in the area has confessed to sexual offenses against two young males who were between nine and ten.
The accused was taken into custody after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at the facility in July.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at the courthouse on Friday.
However, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody before a additional proceeding on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were attending a summer camp which he managed.
The defendant engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and request they to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She told the court Ruben had played this game with the boys "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously become sick the subsequent day.
She stated Ruben had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had worries in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to examine in the individual's items."
The legal counsel said items including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepchild contacted the authorities about his worries.
She explained the man proceeded to play the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the subsequent day.
"The police had not arrived by that point," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The prosecutor stated the youngsters were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the stepson notified the law enforcement a second time.
She explained the defendant then played the "sweet game" in a room of five children.
