A person who laced sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a summer program in the region has admitted sexual offences against two young males who were between nine and ten.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight children and a grown-up became sick at the facility in mid-summer.
The elderly man, from the Nottinghamshire area, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he stood at the judicial center on Friday.
Nevertheless, he disputed a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was held in detention before a further hearing on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, handling the case, outlined the defendant's actions to the judicial body.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer program which he operated.
The defendant conducted a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the young males "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the subsequent day.
She explained the man had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in recently.
The legal representative stated further: "In the summer" his family member had suspicions about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the individual's items."
The legal counsel said materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were found, and his stepson notified the law enforcement about his worries.
She stated the man proceeded to engage in the "sweet game" with six youngsters that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she added.
The regulatory agency, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was examining law enforcement's management of the incident.
The legal representative stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the family member contacted the authorities again.
She explained the defendant then engaged in the "sweet game" in a space of five youngsters.
