A man who spiked candy with tranquilliser and gave them to minors at a summer program in the area has admitted sexual offenses against two boys who were nine and 10.
The accused was detained after eight children and one adult experienced illness at the location in July.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at the judicial center on recently.
However, he disputed one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was involving a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was held in detention before a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer program which he operated.
The man played a "treat game" with the children, the legal counsel stated, in which he would access the boys' rooms when they were settling down and ask them to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had played this game with the boys "for many years", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the next day.
She explained the defendant had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the minors being "overexcited from fun", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "Recently" his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC explained objects including baby oil, ointment and syringes were found, and his family member alerted the law enforcement about his concerns.
She stated Ruben went on to engage in the "candy game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that point," she added.
The oversight body, the investigative body, previously told that it was investigating law enforcement's management of the incident.
The prosecutor stated the children were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson contacted the authorities again.
She stated Ruben then played the "candy game" in a area of five minors.
