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A person who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a summer program in the area has admitted sexual offenses against two children aged nine and 10.

The defendant was detained after eight minors and an older person became sick at the facility in mid-summer.

The elderly man, from that region, pleaded guilty to a multiple criminal counts when he was present at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.

Yet, he disputed a single sexual charge he was facing, which was concerning a young boy.

Ruben was held in detention before a subsequent court date on 28 November.

'Treat game'

The legal representative, presenting evidence, outlined the defendant's actions to the court.

She said his victims were under-privileged children who were attending a summer program which he operated.

Ruben played a "sweet game" with the minors, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were preparing to sleep and ask them to consume candy "as fast as possible".

She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the boys "over an extended period", and children had previously become sick the subsequent day.

She stated the defendant had been able to explain this over a long period as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.

The legal representative added: "This year his stepson had suspicions about the activities, justifiably.

"They chose" to have a look in the individual's items."

The prosecutor explained items including infant oil, petroleum jelly and syringes were discovered, and his stepchild contacted the police about his worries.

She stated the defendant went on to conduct the "candy game" with six youngsters that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.

"Law enforcement" had not arrived by that point," she stated further.

The oversight body, the investigative body, had stated that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.

The legal representative explained the youngsters were struggling to walk due to being ill, so the family member contacted the authorities again.

She said Ruben then played the "candy game" in a room of five minors.