A man who contaminated candy with sleeping medication and gave them to minors at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two young males aged nine and 10.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight children and an older person experienced illness at the facility in July.
The senior citizen, from that region, pleaded guilty to a total of 17 charges when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Nevertheless, he disputed a single sexual charge he was facing, which was against a nine-year-old child.
The accused was held in detention prior to a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined Ruben's offending to the legal proceedings.
She said his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer camp which he managed.
Ruben conducted a "sweet game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to consume candy "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had played this game with the children "over an extended period", and minors had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She said the man had been able to explain this for many years as the youngsters being "overexcited from fun", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "This year his stepson had concerns about the situation, for good reason.
"They decided to examine in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor explained objects including baby oil, ointment and medical needles were located, and his stepchild alerted the authorities about his suspicions.
She explained the defendant went on to play the "candy game" with six youngsters that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that point," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, previously told that it was reviewing the police response of the events.
Mrs Prior explained the youngsters were struggling to walk due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson called the authorities once more.
She stated the defendant then played the "candy game" in a area of five children.
