Person admits sex offences targeting boys at youth camp
A man who laced candy with tranquilliser and gave them to minors at a youth camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males both nine and ten years old.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight children and a grown-up became sick at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from that region, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at the judicial center on recently.
Yet, he refused to admit one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was held in detention prior to a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer camp which he ran.
The defendant played a "treat game" with the children, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and ask them to consume candy "rapidly".
She told the court the man had conducted this practice with the boys "over an extended period", and children had previously fallen ill the subsequent day.
She explained Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overexcited from fun", until his stepson had worries in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "This year his family member had suspicions about the activities, for good reason.
"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC said materials including infant oil, Vaseline and injection devices were found, and his family member alerted the police about his concerns.
She stated Ruben continued to conduct the "treat game" with six children that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that point," she continued.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the minors were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so the family member notified the police once more.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "sweet game" in a space of five youngsters.
