Man confesses to sexual crimes targeting boys at summer camp
A man who spiked treats with sedative and provided them to youngsters at a summer camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two children both nine and ten years old.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at the location in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from that region, pleaded guilty to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Yet, he refused to admit one particular crime he was facing, which was involving a young boy.
The accused was remanded in custody ahead of a subsequent court date on late November.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She said his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he managed.
Ruben played a "treat game" with the children, the prosecutor stated, in which he would go into the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and request they to consume candy "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and minors had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his stepson had suspicions about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated materials including baby oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were discovered, and his stepchild contacted the law enforcement about his worries.
She said the defendant proceeded to conduct the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - that Saturday - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that time," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the incident.
The legal representative explained the children were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member notified the law enforcement a second time.
She said the man then played the "sweet game" in a space of five youngsters.
