An individual who contaminated treats with sedative and distributed them to youngsters at a youth camp in the region has admitted sexual crimes against two boys who were between nine and ten.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight children and one adult experienced illness at the facility in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he was present 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 nine-year-old child.
The defendant was held in detention ahead of a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the court.
She said his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were attending a youth camp which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had conducted this practice with the children "for many years", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She explained the man had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in summer 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "Recently" his family member had suspicions about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They chose" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC stated materials including lubricant, ointment and medical needles were found, and his family member contacted the authorities about his suspicions.
She explained Ruben continued to play the "treat game" with six children that evening - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"The police had not arrived by that point," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior explained the minors were struggling to walk due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson called the authorities again.
She stated Ruben then conducted the "candy game" in a room of five minors.
