An individual who laced treats with sedative and gave them to youngsters at a youth camp in the region has admitted sexual offenses against two young males who were between nine and ten.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and one adult fell ill at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The elderly man, from the Nottinghamshire area, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the judicial center on Friday.
Yet, he disputed a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody prior to a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The legal representative, handling the case, detailed the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She stated his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he managed.
The man engaged in a "sweet game" with the minors, the legal counsel said, in which he would go into the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had conducted this practice with the children "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously become sick the subsequent day.
She explained the man had been able to explain this repeatedly as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had worries in recently.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "This year his stepchild had suspicions about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the individual's items."
The legal counsel said materials including lubricant, ointment and syringes were discovered, and his stepson alerted the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She stated Ruben continued to conduct the "sweet game" with six boys that evening - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that point," she added.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, earlier informed that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the incident.
The legal representative said the minors were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member contacted the police a second time.
She stated Ruben then played the "candy game" in a space of five youngsters.
