🔗 Share this article

An individual who spiked sweets with sleeping medication and gave them to children at a youth camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two children both between nine and ten.

The accused was detained after eight minors and an older person experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.

The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he stood at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.

Nevertheless, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old boy.

Ruben was kept in jail prior to a additional proceeding on late November.

'Sweet game'

The prosecutor, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.

She stated his victims were under-privileged children who were attending a youth camp which he operated.

Ruben conducted a "sweet game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior said, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were settling down and ask them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".

She informed the proceedings Ruben had played this game with the children "over an extended period", and minors had earlier experienced illness the next day.

She explained Ruben had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in summer 2025.

The prosecutor added: "In the summer" his stepson had concerns about the activities, for good reason.

"They decided to examine in the individual's items."

The prosecutor stated materials including baby oil, ointment and injection devices were located, and his stepson notified the authorities about his worries.

She stated the defendant continued to engage in the "candy game" with six boys that evening - that Saturday - and they were all sick the next day.

"Law enforcement" had not responded by that stage," she added.

The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.

The legal representative stated the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so the stepson called the authorities a second time.

She stated the defendant then conducted the "treat game" in a room of five youngsters.