A person who spiked sweets with tranquilliser and provided them to youngsters at a summer camp in the area has admitted sexual offenses against two boys who were nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight youngsters and a grown-up experienced illness at the facility in July.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he denied a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was against a young boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody prior to a additional proceeding on late November.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She said his those affected were under-privileged children who were attending a youth camp which he managed.
Ruben engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor said, in which he would go into the children's bedrooms when they were settling down and tell them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She told the court the man had played this game with the boys "repeatedly", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "This year his family member had suspicions about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the individual's items."
The legal counsel explained materials including baby oil, ointment and injection devices were discovered, and his stepchild contacted the authorities about his worries.
She stated the man proceeded to engage in the "sweet game" with six youngsters that time - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that point," she added.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, previously told that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the events.
Mrs Prior stated the children were struggling to walk due to their sickness, so the family member contacted the authorities once more.
She stated Ruben then played the "candy game" in a space of five children.
