A man who spiked candy with tranquilliser and distributed them to youngsters at a summer camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two young males both nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight children and a grown-up became sick at the facility in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from that region, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he stood at the judicial center on Friday.
Nevertheless, he refused to admit one particular crime he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
The accused was held in detention ahead of a subsequent court date on late November.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined Ruben's offending to the judicial body.
She explained his victims were under-privileged children who were participating in a summer camp which he ran.
The defendant engaged in a "sweet game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She told the court the defendant had conducted this practice with the children "for many years", and minors had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She said the defendant had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "This year his stepson had worries about the situation, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor explained objects including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepson notified the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She explained Ruben continued to conduct the "candy game" with six youngsters that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that point," she continued.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, had stated that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The prosecutor explained the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their sickness, so the stepson called the authorities once more.
She explained Ruben then engaged in the "sweet game" in a area of five minors.
