An individual who spiked candy with tranquilliser and gave them to minors at a summer program in Leicestershire has admitted sexual offences against two boys who were nine and ten years old.
Jon Ruben was detained after eight youngsters and an older person became sick at the facility in the summer month.
The elderly man, from that region, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.
However, he disputed a single sexual charge he was facing, which was against a young boy.
The accused was held in detention ahead of a further hearing on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The legal representative, handling the case, outlined Ruben's offending to the court.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a youth camp which he managed.
The defendant conducted a "treat game" with the minors, the prosecutor said, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and ask them to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She informed the proceedings the man had played this game with the young males "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the subsequent day.
She said Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had concerns in recently.
The prosecutor stated further: "Recently" his stepchild had worries about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They chose" to examine in the individual's items."
The legal counsel said materials including infant oil, ointment and syringes were discovered, and his stepson contacted the authorities about his worries.
She explained the defendant proceeded to engage in the "sweet game" with six youngsters that evening - that Saturday - and they were all sick the following morning.
"The police had not gone out by that point," she continued.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, had stated that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
Mrs Prior stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member contacted the police again.
She stated Ruben then engaged in the "sweet game" in a room of five children.
