A person who spiked treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to youngsters at a summer program in Leicestershire has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two boys who were nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight minors and a grown-up became sick at the facility in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from the Nottinghamshire area, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Nevertheless, he denied a single sexual charge he was facing, which was against a young boy.
The accused was held in detention prior to a further hearing on late November.
'Candy game'
The legal representative, presenting evidence, described the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She said his targets were under-privileged children who were staying at a summer camp which he ran.
The man engaged in a "treat game" with the minors, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would enter the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to eat sweets "as fast as possible".
She told the court the man had conducted this practice with the young males "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She said the man had been able to explain this for many years as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepchild had suspicions in recently.
The legal representative continued: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about the situation, with valid cause.
"They decided to investigate in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated objects including baby oil, ointment and syringes were located, and his stepchild contacted the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She said Ruben went on to conduct the "treat game" with six boys that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"The police had not responded by that point," she added.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The prosecutor stated the children were struggling to walk due to their sickness, so the stepson called the law enforcement again.
She said Ruben then conducted the "candy game" in a space of five minors.
