Person confesses to sex offences targeting boys at summer program
A person who contaminated candy with tranquilliser and distributed them to youngsters at a youth camp in the area has admitted sexual crimes against two young males both nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight minors and an older person became sick at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The elderly man, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at the judicial center on recently.
However, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was involving a young boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody before a additional proceeding on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, handling the case, detailed the defendant's actions to the judicial body.
She said his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a youth camp which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel stated, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were preparing to sleep and request they to eat sweets "rapidly".
She informed the proceedings the defendant had engaged in this activity with the young males "over an extended period", and children had previously become sick the next day.
She stated the man had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overexcited from fun", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
The prosecutor continued: "In the summer" his stepchild had worries about the situation, for good reason.
"They chose" to examine in the individual's items."
The prosecutor stated materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were discovered, and his stepchild alerted the law enforcement about his concerns.
She said Ruben went on to conduct the "candy game" with six children that night - that Saturday - and they were all sick the next day.
"The police had not responded by that stage," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The prosecutor said the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson notified the police once more.
She said Ruben then engaged in the "treat game" in a room of five children.
