A man who laced sweets with sedative and gave them to children at a summer program in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two young males both nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight minors and an older person experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The senior citizen, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at the courthouse on Friday.
Nevertheless, he denied a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was concerning a young boy.
The accused was remanded in custody ahead of a subsequent court date on November 28th.
The legal representative, prosecuting, described Ruben's offending to the legal proceedings.
She explained his targets were under-privileged children who were attending a summer program which he operated.
The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the children, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the boys' rooms when they were settling down and tell them to consume candy "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the defendant had conducted this practice with the children "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She said the man had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his stepson had concerns about what was going on, for good reason.
"They chose" to investigate in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were located, and his stepchild contacted the law enforcement about his concerns.
She said Ruben went on to conduct the "treat game" with six youngsters that time - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that point," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The prosecutor stated the minors were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the family member notified the authorities once more.
She said Ruben then engaged in the "treat game" in a room of five minors.
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