Individual admits sex offences targeting children at youth camp

An individual who contaminated candy with tranquilliser and distributed them to youngsters at a youth camp in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males aged nine and 10.

The accused was detained after eight children and one adult experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.

The senior citizen, from the Nottinghamshire area, pleaded guilty to a total of 17 charges when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.

However, he refused to admit one particular crime he was charged with, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.

The accused was held in detention before a further hearing on late November.

'Candy game'

The prosecutor, handling the case, described Ruben's offending to the judicial body.

She explained his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.

The man conducted a "treat game" with the minors, the legal counsel explained, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and request they to ingest treats "as fast as possible".

She informed the proceedings the man had conducted this practice with the young males "repeatedly", and children had previously become sick the following morning.

She said the defendant had been able to explain this repeatedly as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in summer 2025.

The prosecutor continued: "Recently" his stepson had suspicions about what was going on, with valid cause.

"They chose" to have a look in the individual's items."

Mrs Prior KC said items including lubricant, ointment and injection devices were found, and his family member contacted the law enforcement about his worries.

She stated the defendant proceeded to engage in the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.

"Authorities" had not gone out by that time," she stated further.

The oversight body, the investigative body, previously told that it was examining law enforcement's management of the situation.

Mrs Prior said the minors were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson notified the authorities once more.

She explained Ruben then conducted the "treat game" in a space of five minors.