Individual admits sexual crimes targeting boys at summer program
An individual who laced candy with sedative and gave them to children at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two children aged nine and 10.
The defendant was arrested after eight minors and one adult became sick at Stathern Lodge in July.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Yet, he refused to admit one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody before a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She said his victims were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
The defendant played a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were settling down and request they to eat sweets "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge the defendant had conducted this practice with the children "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously become sick the next day.
She stated the defendant had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "Recently" his stepchild had concerns about the activities, justifiably.
"They resolved" to investigate in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor stated items including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were discovered, and his stepchild alerted the authorities about his worries.
She explained the defendant went on to engage in the "sweet game" with six boys that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the next day.
"The police had not responded by that time," she continued.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, earlier informed that it was examining law enforcement's management of the situation.
The legal representative explained the minors were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member called the authorities once more.
She explained Ruben then conducted the "candy game" in a room of five youngsters.
