Man admits sexual offenses against children at youth camp
A man who spiked candy with tranquilliser and gave them to youngsters at a summer camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males who were nine and 10.
The accused was taken into custody after eight youngsters and one adult became sick at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The elderly man, from the Nottinghamshire area, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at the judicial center on Friday.
Nevertheless, he denied one particular crime he was facing, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.
Ruben was held in detention before a further hearing on late November.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the defendant's actions to the court.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he ran.
The defendant played a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor explained, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were settling down and request they to eat sweets "rapidly".
She told the court the defendant had played this game with the boys "over an extended period", and children had previously become sick the next day.
She said the defendant had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had worries in July 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "In the summer" his stepchild had concerns about the activities, for good reason.
"They decided to investigate in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC stated objects including baby oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were found, and his stepchild notified the authorities about his concerns.
She said Ruben proceeded to conduct the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, earlier informed that it was investigating the police response of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson contacted the authorities once more.
She explained the defendant then played the "candy game" in a room of five minors.
