A man who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and gave them to children at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two boys both between nine and ten.
The accused was detained after eight minors and an older person experienced illness at the facility in July.
The senior citizen, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at the courthouse on Friday.
Yet, he disputed one particular crime he was facing, which was involving a young boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody prior to a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, detailed Ruben's offending to the court.
She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were staying at a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel said, in which he would go into the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She told the court Ruben had conducted this practice with the boys "repeatedly", and minors had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She stated the defendant had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had worries in summer 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "This year his stepson had worries about what was going on, justifiably.
"They chose" to investigate in the individual's items."
The prosecutor explained items including baby oil, Vaseline and medical needles were found, and his family member notified the police about his concerns.
She explained the defendant proceeded to conduct the "sweet game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"The police had not gone out by that stage," she added.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, had stated that it was examining the police response of the events.
The legal representative stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson notified the authorities a second time.
She explained the defendant then played the "candy game" in a room of five children.
