An individual who spiked sweets with sleeping medication and gave them to children at a summer camp in Leicestershire has admitted sexual offences against two children who were nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight youngsters and an older person experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Yet, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old child.
The defendant was held in detention prior to a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer program which he operated.
The man played a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel stated, in which he would go into the boys' rooms when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to consume candy "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had played this game with the boys "for many years", and minors had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She said the man had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "In the summer" his stepson had suspicions about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They chose" to examine in the individual's items."
The legal counsel stated materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were found, and his stepchild contacted the police about his suspicions.
She stated the defendant continued to conduct the "treat game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Authorities" had not gone out by that stage," she added.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The prosecutor said the children were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the family member contacted the authorities a second time.
She explained Ruben then conducted the "treat game" in a space of five minors.
