A person who laced sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a summer program in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual offences against two boys both nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight youngsters and one adult fell ill at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he stood at the courthouse on Friday.
Nevertheless, he disputed a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was concerning a young boy.
The defendant was held in detention ahead of a subsequent court date on late November.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, outlined the defendant's actions to the court.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer program which he operated.
Ruben played a "treat game" with the children, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings the man had played this game with the boys "repeatedly", and children had previously become sick the next day.
She explained Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in summer 2025.
The legal representative continued: "This year his stepson had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They decided to examine in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor explained items including infant oil, Vaseline and medical needles were located, and his family member contacted the police about his concerns.
She said the man proceeded to conduct the "candy game" with six boys that night - that Saturday - and they were all ill the subsequent day.
"The police had not arrived by that stage," she continued.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was investigating law enforcement's management of the events.
Mrs Prior stated the minors were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member notified the law enforcement again.
She stated the defendant then conducted the "candy game" in a room of five children.
