A person who spiked treats with sedative and distributed them to children at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two children aged nine and 10.
The accused was detained after eight children and a grown-up became sick at the location in July.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he disputed one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was remanded in custody ahead of a subsequent court date on late November.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, handling the case, outlined the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
The man played a "candy game" with the children, the legal counsel stated, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She stated to the judge the defendant had engaged in this activity with the young males "for many years", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had worries in summer 2025.
The legal representative added: "This year his family member had concerns about the activities, justifiably.
"They chose" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC explained materials including lubricant, ointment and syringes were located, and his stepchild alerted the law enforcement about his worries.
She explained the defendant proceeded to conduct the "treat game" with six youngsters that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior said the children were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the family member notified the authorities a second time.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "sweet game" in a room of five minors.
