Man admits sexual crimes involving young males at summer camp

An individual who contaminated sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a summer program in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual crimes against two children both nine and 10.

Jon Ruben was detained after eight youngsters and one adult fell ill at the facility in mid-summer.

The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he stood at the judicial center on Friday.

Yet, he disputed one particular crime he was facing, which was involving a young boy.

The accused was held in detention prior to a additional proceeding on 28 November.

'Sweet game'

The legal representative, prosecuting, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.

She explained his victims were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he managed.

Ruben played a "candy game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the boys' rooms when they were settling down and tell them to consume candy "rapidly".

She stated to the judge Ruben had conducted this practice with the young males "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously become sick the next day.

She explained Ruben had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepchild had suspicions in July 2025.

The prosecutor continued: "This year his family member had concerns about the activities, for good reason.

"They chose" to investigate in the man's possessions."

The legal counsel explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were discovered, and his stepchild contacted the law enforcement about his concerns.

She said Ruben continued to engage in the "candy game" with six children that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the subsequent day.

"The police had not arrived by that stage," she continued.

The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was examining the police response of the events.

Mrs Prior stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member called the authorities once more.

She stated Ruben then played the "candy game" in a space of five minors.