An individual who spiked sweets with tranquilliser and provided them to youngsters at a youth camp in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual offenses against two children both nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight youngsters and one adult fell ill at the location in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, pleaded guilty to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Yet, he disputed one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was against a young boy.
The defendant was held in detention before a additional proceeding on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the judicial body.
She stated his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the minors, the prosecutor stated, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to eat sweets "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and minors had previously become sick the next day.
She said the man had been able to explain this over a long period as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had concerns in recently.
The prosecutor added: "This year his family member had suspicions about the activities, with valid cause.
"They chose" to have a look in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC said items including baby oil, ointment and injection devices were found, and his stepchild notified the police about his suspicions.
She said Ruben proceeded to play the "candy game" with six youngsters that night - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that stage," she stated further.
The oversight body, the police conduct office, had stated that it was examining law enforcement's management of the events.
The prosecutor stated the children were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson contacted the authorities a second time.
She explained the man then engaged in the "sweet game" in a space of five youngsters.
