A person who spiked candy with tranquilliser and provided them to youngsters at a summer program in Leicestershire has admitted sexual offences against two boys who were nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was taken into custody after eight children and one adult fell ill at Stathern Lodge in July.
The senior citizen, from that region, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on recently.
Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a young boy.
The accused was remanded in custody prior to a further hearing on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his targets were under-privileged children who were staying at a summer program which he operated.
The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the minors, the prosecutor stated, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to eat sweets "as fast as possible".
She told the court Ruben had engaged in this activity with the young males "repeatedly", and minors had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She said the man had been able to explain this repeatedly as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had worries in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "This year his stepson had concerns about the situation, for good reason.
"They decided to examine in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel said items including lubricant, ointment and syringes were located, and his family member contacted the law enforcement about his worries.
She said Ruben continued to conduct the "candy game" with six youngsters that evening - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she stated further.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was investigating law enforcement's management of the incident.
The legal representative stated the minors were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so the stepson contacted the police again.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "treat game" in a space of five youngsters.
