A man who contaminated candy with sedative and gave them to youngsters at a summer program in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual offences against two young males who were between nine and ten.
The accused was arrested after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at the location in the summer month.
The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody before a subsequent court date on late November.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his victims were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a summer program which he managed.
Ruben conducted a "candy game" with the children, the legal counsel said, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She told the court Ruben had played this game with the children "for many years", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She explained the defendant had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had worries in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "In the summer" his family member had suspicions about the situation, with valid cause.
"They chose" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained objects including baby oil, Vaseline and syringes were located, and his stepson alerted the law enforcement about his concerns.
She said the man went on to conduct the "candy game" with six youngsters that evening - July 26th - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not gone out by that stage," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, had stated that it was investigating law enforcement's management of the events.
The legal representative explained the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson notified the police once more.
She explained the defendant then played the "sweet game" in a room of five children.
