🔗 Share this article

A man who laced treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to youngsters at a summer program in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two young males both between nine and ten.

Jon Ruben was arrested after eight children and an older person experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.

The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.

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

The accused was kept in jail before a additional proceeding on 28 November.

'Candy game'

Mary Prior KC, handling the case, outlined Ruben's offending to the judicial body.

She explained his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a summer program which he operated.

Ruben conducted a "treat game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior stated, 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 played this game with the young males "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously become sick the next day.

She explained the defendant had been capable of justifying this repeatedly as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in recently.

Mrs Prior KC stated further: "This year his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.

"They decided to investigate in the defendant's belongings."

The prosecutor explained items including infant oil, ointment and medical needles were found, and his stepson contacted the authorities about his concerns.

She stated the defendant went on to play the "treat game" with six boys that night - that Saturday - and they were all sick the next day.

"The police had not responded by that point," she continued.

The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the incident.

The legal representative said the children were having difficulty walking due to their condition, so the family member notified the law enforcement once more.

She said the man then played the "candy game" in a space of five children.