A person who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a youth camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two children who were nine and 10.
The accused was detained after eight youngsters and a grown-up experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.
The senior citizen, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, pleaded guilty to a multiple criminal counts when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.
Yet, he disputed one particular crime he was facing, which was against a young boy.
The defendant was held in detention ahead of a further hearing on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described Ruben's offending to the court.
She stated his victims were under-privileged children who were staying at a summer program which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior said, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and ask them to eat sweets "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had engaged in this activity with the young males "repeatedly", and children had previously become sick the next day.
She explained the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had worries in July 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "This year his family member had suspicions about the situation, with valid cause.
"They decided to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained objects including lubricant, ointment and medical needles were located, and his stepchild alerted the authorities about his concerns.
She explained Ruben proceeded to play the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - that Saturday - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Authorities" had not gone out by that time," she continued.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, earlier informed that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the children were having difficulty walking due to their sickness, so the family member notified the law enforcement once more.
She explained the man then played the "treat game" in a space of five youngsters.
