An individual who contaminated candy with sleeping medication and provided them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual offenses against two young males aged between nine and ten.
The accused was arrested after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at the facility in the summer month.
The elderly man, from that region, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
However, he disputed a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was kept in jail prior to a additional proceeding on late November.
'Candy game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, detailed the defendant's actions to the court.
She explained his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
Ruben played a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor said, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She told the court Ruben had played this game with the boys "over an extended period", and children had previously become sick the following morning.
She explained the man had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overexcited from fun", until his family member had worries in summer 2025.
The legal representative added: "In the summer" his family member had suspicions about the activities, for good reason.
"They resolved" to have a look in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor stated materials including lubricant, Vaseline and medical needles were found, and his family member contacted the police about his suspicions.
She explained Ruben proceeded to engage in the "treat game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that time," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, had stated that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the minors were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member notified the police once more.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "treat game" in a space of five children.
