A man who laced sweets with tranquilliser and provided them to minors at a summer camp in the area has confessed to sexual offenses against two boys who were nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was taken into custody after eight youngsters and a grown-up fell ill at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The senior citizen, from that region, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.
However, he denied one particular crime he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old child.
The accused was remanded in custody ahead of a subsequent court date on late November.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined Ruben's offending to the legal proceedings.
She explained his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he managed.
The defendant played a "candy game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would go into the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge the defendant had engaged in this activity with the boys "for many years", and children had previously become sick the next day.
She stated Ruben had been capable of justifying this repeatedly as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "This year his stepchild had worries about the activities, for good reason.
"They resolved" to examine in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC stated materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were located, and his family member alerted the police about his worries.
She explained Ruben proceeded to play the "treat game" with six children that night - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that stage," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The prosecutor explained the children were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member contacted the police again.
She explained the defendant then engaged in the "treat game" in a space of five youngsters.
