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An individual who spiked treats with sleeping medication and gave them to children at a summer camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two boys both nine and 10.

The defendant was taken into custody after eight minors and one adult became sick at the location in the summer month.

The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.

However, he refused to admit one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old child.

The accused was remanded in custody before a further hearing on late November.

'Treat game'

The legal representative, handling the case, outlined the defendant's actions to the court.

She explained his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.

Ruben engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel stated, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and tell them to consume candy "rapidly".

She informed the proceedings the defendant had engaged in this activity with the boys "for many years", and minors had previously fallen ill the following morning.

She said the man had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had suspicions in July 2025.

Mrs Prior KC stated further: "This year his stepchild had concerns about the situation, for good reason.

"They decided to have a look in the man's possessions."

The prosecutor explained materials including lubricant, ointment and injection devices were discovered, and his stepchild notified the police about his worries.

She explained Ruben proceeded to play the "treat game" with six boys that time - July 26th - and they were all sick the next day.

"The police had not responded by that stage," she continued.

The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, had stated that it was reviewing the police response of the situation.

The legal representative said the children were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson called the police again.

She stated the defendant then engaged in the "sweet game" in a room of five children.