A man who spiked sweets with sleeping medication and gave them to youngsters at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two children both between nine and ten.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and a grown-up fell ill at the location in mid-summer.
The 76-year-old, from that region, pleaded guilty to a multiple criminal counts when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.
Yet, he refused to admit one particular crime he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing on November 28th.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a youth camp which he operated.
Ruben engaged in a "treat game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would go into the boys' rooms when they were settling down and tell them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She informed the proceedings the man had conducted this practice with the boys "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the next day.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had suspicions in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his family member had suspicions about the activities, justifiably.
"They chose" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
The prosecutor stated items including lubricant, ointment and injection devices were discovered, and his family member contacted the law enforcement about his concerns.
She stated the defendant continued to conduct the "treat game" with six boys that evening - that Saturday - and they were all ill the subsequent day.
"The police had not responded by that time," she added.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was examining law enforcement's management of the events.
The legal representative stated the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the stepson contacted the law enforcement a second time.
She stated the man then conducted the "treat game" in a space of five children.
