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An individual who spiked treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a summer camp in the area has confessed to sexual crimes against two children aged nine and 10.

Jon Ruben was detained after eight minors and one adult experienced illness at the location in mid-summer.

The elderly man, from the Nottinghamshire area, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he stood at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.

Nevertheless, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was facing, which was involving a young boy.

The accused was held in detention before a subsequent court date on November 28th.

'Treat game'

The prosecutor, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.

She explained his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were attending a youth camp which he ran.

The defendant played a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the legal counsel stated, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to ingest treats "rapidly".

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

She explained the man had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overexcited from fun", until his stepson had worries in summer 2025.

The prosecutor added: "Recently" his family member had suspicions about the activities, for good reason.

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

The prosecutor stated materials including infant oil, Vaseline and injection devices were located, and his stepchild notified the law enforcement about his suspicions.

She stated the man went on to engage in the "sweet game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all sick the subsequent day.

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

The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the situation.

The legal representative said the minors were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the stepson called the authorities a second time.

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