A person who spiked treats with tranquilliser and gave them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two children both nine and 10.
The defendant was detained after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at the facility in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on recently.
Nevertheless, he disputed a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was held in detention ahead of a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She stated his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a youth camp which he managed.
The man engaged in a "sweet game" with the children, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to eat sweets "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings the man had engaged in this activity with the children "over an extended period", and children had previously become sick the following morning.
She explained the defendant had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the youngsters being "overexcited from fun", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "In the summer" his stepson had concerns about the situation, justifiably.
"They chose" to examine in the individual's items."
The prosecutor said items including infant oil, ointment and injection devices were located, and his stepson contacted the police about his concerns.
She explained the defendant proceeded to engage in the "candy game" with six youngsters that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she added.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, had stated that it was examining the police response of the incident.
The legal representative said the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson called the authorities once more.
She said the defendant then conducted the "sweet game" in a area of five youngsters.
