A person who laced treats with sedative and distributed them to youngsters at a summer camp in Leicestershire has admitted sexual crimes against two boys both nine and 10.
The accused was detained after eight minors and a grown-up experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the judicial center on Friday.
Yet, he disputed one of the sexual offences he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was held in detention ahead of a further hearing on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant played a "treat game" with the minors, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to consume candy "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had conducted this practice with the children "for many years", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She stated the defendant had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in summer 2025.
The legal representative added: "Recently" his family member had concerns about the situation, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC said items including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepson contacted the law enforcement about his worries.
She stated the man went on to play the "candy game" with six boys that time - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that time," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the police conduct office, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The legal representative explained the children were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the stepson contacted the police again.
She explained Ruben then played the "sweet game" in a room of five minors.
