An individual who spiked candy with tranquilliser and provided them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two young males both between nine and ten.
The accused was arrested after eight children and an older person became sick at the location in July.
The 76-year-old, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Nevertheless, he denied one particular crime he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was kept in jail ahead of a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, described Ruben's offending to the judicial body.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
Ruben conducted a "candy game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel said, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to consume candy "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the defendant had played this game with the young males "for many years", and minors had previously become sick the next day.
She stated the man had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "Recently" his family member had worries about what was going on, for good reason.
"They decided to examine in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC explained items including lubricant, Vaseline and syringes were found, and his stepson notified the authorities about his concerns.
She stated the man went on to engage in the "candy game" with six youngsters that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the next day.
"The police had not responded by that point," she continued.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The legal representative stated the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so the stepson notified the police again.
She stated the defendant then played the "sweet game" in a area of five children.
