A man who laced treats with sedative and distributed them to youngsters at a summer program in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two boys both between nine and ten.
Jon Ruben was detained after eight youngsters and an older person experienced illness at the facility in July.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the courthouse on the end of the week.
However, he denied one particular crime he was charged with, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody before a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, detailed the criminal behavior to the court.
She said his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior said, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to eat sweets "rapidly".
She told the court the man had conducted this practice with the boys "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the next day.
She explained the man had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his family member had suspicions about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the man's possessions."
Mrs Prior KC explained items including baby oil, ointment and syringes were located, and his family member contacted the police about his suspicions.
She said Ruben proceeded to conduct the "treat game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all sick the next day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the incident.
Mrs Prior stated the minors were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the family member called the authorities once more.
She said the man then conducted the "treat game" in a room of five minors.
