A man who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and gave them to children at a summer program in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two boys both nine and ten years old.
The defendant was arrested after eight youngsters and a grown-up became sick at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at the judicial center on the end of the week.
However, he denied one of the sexual offences he was facing, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody prior to a subsequent court date on late November.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, handling the case, outlined Ruben's offending to the court.
She explained his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a youth camp which he ran.
Ruben conducted a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor said, in which he would go into the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and request they to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She told the court Ruben had played this game with the boys "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously become sick the following morning.
She stated the defendant had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had worries in July 2025.
The legal representative added: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about the situation, with valid cause.
"They chose" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained materials including infant oil, ointment and injection devices were located, and his stepchild notified the authorities about his concerns.
She said the defendant continued to conduct the "treat game" with six youngsters that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that point," she added.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, previously told that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the incident.
The legal representative explained the minors were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the family member contacted the police a second time.
She stated the defendant then conducted the "candy game" in a space of five children.
