An individual who spiked treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to youngsters at a summer camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two boys who were nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight youngsters and an older person fell ill at the facility in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Yet, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old child.
The defendant was kept in jail prior to a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his victims were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer camp which he managed.
The defendant conducted a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor explained, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge the defendant had engaged in this activity with the young males "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She said the defendant had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the children being "overexcited from fun", until his stepchild had suspicions in summer 2025.
The prosecutor added: "In the summer" his stepson had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They decided to have a look in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepchild alerted the authorities about his concerns.
She explained the defendant went on to conduct the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the subsequent day.
"The police had not responded by that stage," she stated further.
The oversight body, the investigative body, had stated that it was investigating law enforcement's management of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the children were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson notified the police once more.
She stated the man then played the "treat game" in a area of five minors.
