A man who laced treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a summer program in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two young males both nine and ten years old.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and one adult experienced illness at the facility in July.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he was present at the courthouse on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he refused to admit one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was against a nine-year-old child.
The defendant was held in detention ahead of a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his targets were under-privileged children who were staying at a summer camp which he ran.
Ruben conducted a "candy game" with the children, Mrs Prior said, in which he would go into the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to consume candy "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the defendant had conducted this practice with the young males "for many years", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She explained the man had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had suspicions in summer 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "In the summer" his family member had worries about the situation, with valid cause.
"They chose" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
The prosecutor explained materials including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were discovered, and his stepchild alerted the police about his suspicions.
She stated Ruben continued to engage in the "sweet game" with six youngsters that evening - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that stage," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, previously told that it was reviewing the police response of the events.
The legal representative stated the children were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the stepson contacted the authorities a second time.
She said the man then engaged in the "treat game" in a space of five minors.
