An individual who spiked candy with sedative and gave them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two boys aged nine and 10.
The defendant was detained after eight minors and an older person became sick at the location in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he stood at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Yet, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was facing, which was concerning a young boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody ahead of a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, described the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She explained his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
Ruben conducted a "candy game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She told the court Ruben had engaged in this activity with the boys "for many years", and minors had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She explained the defendant had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in recently.
The legal representative continued: "Recently" his family member had worries about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They chose" to investigate in the individual's items."
The prosecutor explained materials including lubricant, petroleum jelly and injection devices were discovered, and his family member notified the police about his suspicions.
She stated the defendant went on to play the "candy game" with six children that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not gone out by that stage," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the incident.
The legal representative said the minors were struggling to walk due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson contacted the police once more.
She explained Ruben then played the "candy game" in a area of five minors.
