An individual who contaminated treats with sleeping medication and gave them to minors at a youth camp in the region has admitted sexual crimes against two boys who were between nine and ten.
The defendant was arrested after eight youngsters and one adult fell ill at the location in mid-summer.
The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he stood at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
However, he refused to admit one of the sexual offences he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was held in detention before a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, prosecuting, described the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer camp which he operated.
The man played a "candy game" with the minors, the legal counsel explained, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and ask them to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge the defendant had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She explained Ruben had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had worries in July 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "This year his family member had concerns about the situation, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to examine in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC stated materials including infant oil, ointment and injection devices were found, and his stepchild alerted the authorities about his suspicions.
She stated the man continued to conduct the "sweet game" with six boys that evening - that Saturday - and they were all sick the subsequent day.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that stage," she continued.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, previously told that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the situation.
Mrs Prior stated the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson notified the authorities once more.
She said Ruben then engaged in the "treat game" in a space of five children.
