An individual who spiked candy with sleeping medication and gave them to youngsters at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two children both nine and 10.
The defendant was arrested after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he stood at the courthouse on Friday.
Nevertheless, he denied a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was involving a nine-year-old child.
The accused was remanded in custody prior to a further hearing on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
The prosecutor, handling the case, described the defendant's actions to the court.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer program which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She told the court the defendant had engaged in this activity with the young males "for many years", and minors had previously become sick the next day.
She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had worries in summer 2025.
The prosecutor stated further: "This year his stepson had worries about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to examine in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated items including lubricant, petroleum jelly and syringes were located, and his family member alerted the authorities about his worries.
She stated the man went on to play the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - that Saturday - and they were all sick the following morning.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that stage," she added.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the incident.
The prosecutor explained the youngsters were struggling to walk due to being ill, so Ruben's stepson called the police a second time.
She explained the man then conducted the "candy game" in a room of five minors.
