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A man who spiked candy with tranquilliser and gave them to minors at a summer program in the region has confessed to sexual offences against two boys both nine and ten years old.

The defendant was detained after eight minors and a grown-up became sick at the location in mid-summer.

The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at the judicial center on Friday.

However, he denied a single sexual charge he was facing, which was involving a nine-year-old boy.

The defendant was remanded in custody before a additional proceeding on 28 November.

'Sweet game'

The prosecutor, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.

She stated his those affected were under-privileged children who were participating in a summer camp which he managed.

Ruben engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to consume candy "as fast as possible".

She told the court the man had played this game with the children "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the following morning.

She explained Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had suspicions in summer 2025.

The legal representative added: "In the summer" his stepchild had suspicions about the situation, justifiably.

"They decided to have a look in the man's possessions."

Mrs Prior KC stated objects including lubricant, ointment and syringes were located, and his family member contacted the law enforcement about his worries.

She explained Ruben proceeded to conduct the "treat game" with six children that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the following morning.

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

The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.

The prosecutor said the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so the stepson called the authorities again.

She stated the defendant then played the "candy game" in a room of five youngsters.