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A man who contaminated sweets with tranquilliser and provided them to children at a youth camp in the region has admitted sexual offences against two young males who were between nine and ten.

The accused was detained after eight minors and an older person experienced illness at the location in July.

The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the courthouse on the end of the week.

Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a young boy.

The defendant was kept in jail ahead of a subsequent court date on 28 November.

'Treat game'

The legal representative, presenting evidence, detailed Ruben's offending to the court.

She explained his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he managed.

The man played a "treat game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to consume candy "as quickly as they can".

She stated to the judge the defendant had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.

She said the man had been capable of justifying this for many years as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had suspicions in July 2025.

The legal representative added: "Recently" his stepchild had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.

"They chose" to examine in the defendant's belongings."

Mrs Prior KC stated items including infant oil, Vaseline and injection devices were discovered, and his family member alerted the authorities about his suspicions.

She stated Ruben continued to play the "treat game" with six youngsters that time - July 26th - and they were all ill the next day.

"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that time," she added.

The regulatory agency, the investigative body, had stated that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the incident.

Mrs Prior said the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so the family member contacted the authorities again.

She stated the man then played the "treat game" in a area of five children.