An individual who laced treats with sleeping medication and gave them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual offences against two children aged nine and 10.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight children and one adult became sick at the location in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from that region, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on recently.
Yet, he disputed a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody prior to a further hearing on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, detailed the criminal behavior to the judicial body.
She explained his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer program which he managed.
Ruben played a "sweet game" with the minors, the legal counsel explained, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to eat sweets "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the man had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and minors had previously become sick the next day.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had concerns in summer 2025.
The legal representative continued: "This year his stepchild had worries about the situation, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated objects including lubricant, petroleum jelly and syringes were found, and his stepson contacted the authorities about his worries.
She stated the defendant went on to conduct the "candy game" with six boys that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, previously told that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The legal representative explained the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member notified the law enforcement again.
She stated the defendant then conducted the "candy game" in a space of five children.
