An individual who laced candy with sedative and provided them to children at a youth camp in the region has admitted sexual crimes against two young males who were between nine and ten.
The defendant was arrested after eight minors and an older person fell ill at the facility in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Nevertheless, he refused to admit one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was against a young boy.
The defendant was kept in jail ahead of a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer program which he managed.
Ruben engaged in a "sweet game" with the children, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to ingest treats "rapidly".
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 following morning.
She explained the defendant had been capable of justifying this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had suspicions in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "Recently" his family member had suspicions about the activities, for good reason.
"They chose" to have a look in the individual's items."
The prosecutor said materials including infant oil, Vaseline and medical needles were found, and his stepchild alerted the police about his suspicions.
She explained Ruben proceeded to conduct the "candy game" with six boys that evening - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Authorities" had not responded by that point," she added.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the minors were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member called the police once more.
She explained Ruben then conducted the "treat game" in a room of five minors.