Individual pleads guilty to sexual offenses against children at youth camp
A person who laced sweets with sedative and gave them to minors at a summer camp in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual crimes against two boys both nine and 10.
The defendant was detained after eight children and one adult fell ill at the facility in July.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at the judicial center on Friday.
Yet, he denied one particular crime he was charged with, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, detailed Ruben's offending to the court.
She stated his targets were under-privileged children who were staying at a youth camp which he operated.
Ruben conducted a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would access the boys' rooms when they were settling down and request they to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge Ruben had conducted this practice with the children "repeatedly", and children had previously fallen ill the next day.
She explained the defendant had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had concerns in summer 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "This year his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to examine in the individual's items."
The prosecutor explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were located, and his stepchild contacted the police about his concerns.
She said Ruben proceeded to play the "sweet game" with six youngsters that time - July 26th - and they were all sick the subsequent day.
"The police had not responded by that stage," she added.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The prosecutor explained the children were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson called the authorities again.
She said Ruben then played the "sweet game" in a area of five minors.
