A man who spiked candy with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has admitted sexual offences against two boys both nine and ten years old.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight youngsters and a grown-up became sick at the facility in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on recently.
However, he denied one particular crime he was facing, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
The defendant was held in detention prior to a further hearing on 28 November.
'Candy game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer camp which he managed.
The defendant played a "sweet game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She told the court the defendant had played this game with the boys "over an extended period", and children had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She stated the defendant had been able to explain this repeatedly as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "In the summer" his family member had suspicions about the activities, for good reason.
"They chose" to have a look in the individual's items."
The legal counsel explained objects including infant oil, ointment and syringes were found, and his family member contacted the authorities about his concerns.
She stated the defendant went on to conduct the "candy game" with six boys that time - that Saturday - and they were all ill the next day.
"The police had not responded by that time," she stated further.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the events.
Mrs Prior said the youngsters were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the stepson notified the police a second time.
She stated Ruben then conducted the "sweet game" in a room of five children.
