Individual admits sex offences involving boys at summer camp
An individual who spiked sweets with sedative and provided them to children at a summer camp in Leicestershire has admitted sexual crimes against two children who were nine and 10.
The accused was detained after eight minors and one adult experienced illness at the location in July.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at the courthouse on Friday.
Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a young boy.
The accused was held in detention before a further hearing on 28 November.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, handling the case, described the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he managed.
The defendant played a "candy game" with the minors, the legal counsel stated, in which he would go into the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to eat sweets "rapidly".
She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the boys "for many years", and youngsters had previously become sick the following morning.
She stated the defendant had been capable of justifying this repeatedly as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "In the summer" his stepson had worries about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to examine in the individual's items."
The legal counsel said items including infant oil, ointment and injection devices were discovered, and his stepson contacted the police about his concerns.
She stated the man went on to play the "sweet game" with six youngsters that night - July 26th - and they were all ill the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she added.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the incident.
Mrs Prior explained the children were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson contacted the law enforcement a second time.
She stated the man then conducted the "treat game" in a space of five minors.
