A man who laced sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a summer camp in the area has admitted sexual offenses against two boys both nine and ten years old.
The accused was arrested after eight children and a grown-up became sick at the facility in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the courthouse on the end of the week.
However, he disputed a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was remanded in custody prior to a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Treat game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
The man conducted a "candy game" with the children, the prosecutor explained, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and request they to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings the man had engaged in this activity with the young males "for many years", and minors had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She explained Ruben had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had suspicions in July 2025.
The legal representative added: "This year his stepchild had concerns about the situation, justifiably.
"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel stated materials including infant oil, Vaseline and injection devices were found, and his family member contacted the police about his suspicions.
She stated Ruben continued to engage in the "treat game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all ill the next day.
"The police had not responded by that time," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, had stated that it was examining the police response of the events.
The prosecutor stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the stepson called the authorities a second time.
She stated the defendant then played the "candy game" in a space of five minors.
