An individual who spiked sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a youth camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two boys both nine and ten years old.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight minors and one adult became sick at the location in the summer month.
The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on recently.
Yet, he refused to admit one particular crime he was accused of, which was concerning a young boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody prior to a further hearing on 28 November.
'Candy game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She said his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a youth camp which he ran.
The man engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would access the children's bedrooms 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 young males "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She explained the man had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had suspicions in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "Recently" his stepchild had worries about the situation, with valid cause.
"They chose" to examine in the man's possessions."
Mrs Prior KC explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and injection devices were found, and his stepson alerted the police about his worries.
She said the man proceeded to engage in the "treat game" with six boys that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she added.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, previously told that it was examining law enforcement's management of the events.
Mrs Prior stated the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson contacted the police once more.
She stated Ruben then played the "sweet game" in a room of five children.
