A person who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a summer camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two young males aged nine and ten years old.
The defendant was arrested after eight children and a grown-up became sick at the location in July.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he stood at the judicial center on Friday.
Nevertheless, he refused to admit one of the sexual offences he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was remanded in custody prior to a subsequent court date on late November.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, outlined the defendant's actions to the judicial body.
She explained his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were attending a summer camp which he managed.
Ruben engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and ask them to eat sweets "rapidly".
She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the boys "for many years", and children had previously become sick the following morning.
She stated the defendant had been successful in rationalizing this for many years as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepchild had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "This year his family member had worries about the activities, justifiably.
"They chose" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC said items including infant oil, Vaseline and medical needles were discovered, and his stepson notified the authorities about his concerns.
She said Ruben went on to play the "candy game" with six youngsters that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not gone out by that point," she continued.
The police watchdog, the police conduct office, previously told that it was investigating the police response of the situation.
The prosecutor said the children were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member called the authorities once more.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "sweet game" in a space of five minors.
