An individual who spiked candy with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a summer camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two children aged nine and 10.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight minors and an older person fell ill at the location in July.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, pleaded guilty to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at the judicial center on Friday.
Yet, he refused to admit one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a young boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody before a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel said, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and request they to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She informed the proceedings Ruben had conducted this practice with the boys "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously become sick the next day.
She stated Ruben had been capable of justifying this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in recently.
The legal representative added: "In the summer" his stepchild had worries about the situation, with valid cause.
"They chose" to investigate in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor said objects including baby oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were found, and his family member contacted the police about his worries.
She stated Ruben continued to engage in the "candy game" with six boys that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not gone out by that stage," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, had stated that it was examining the police response of the events.
Mrs Prior explained the minors were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the family member notified the police a second time.
She stated the defendant then engaged in the "treat game" in a area of five youngsters.
