An individual who laced treats with sedative and provided them to youngsters at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two children who were between nine and ten.
The accused was taken into custody after eight minors and an older person experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.
The senior citizen, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Yet, he disputed a single sexual charge he was facing, which was against a young boy.
The defendant was held in detention before a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, outlined the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She explained his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant conducted a "sweet game" with the children, the prosecutor said, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and request they to ingest treats "rapidly".
She told the court Ruben had conducted this practice with the children "repeatedly", and minors had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She explained Ruben had been capable of justifying this for many years as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in July 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "In the summer" his family member had worries about the situation, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor said objects including baby oil, ointment and medical needles were found, and his stepchild notified the police about his concerns.
She said the man went on to play the "sweet game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was investigating the police response of the situation.
Mrs Prior stated the children were struggling to walk due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson contacted the law enforcement once more.
She explained the defendant then conducted the "candy game" in a area of five youngsters.
