Individual admits sex offences targeting young males at summer camp

A man who contaminated treats with sleeping medication and provided them to youngsters at a youth camp in Leicestershire has confessed to sexual offences against two boys who were nine and 10.

Jon Ruben was arrested after eight minors and one adult became sick at the location in the summer month.

The senior citizen, from that region, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.

However, he denied a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old child.

The defendant was remanded in custody before a subsequent court date on 28 November.

'Candy game'

The legal representative, handling the case, detailed the criminal behavior to the court.

She stated his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a youth camp which he ran.

The man played a "candy game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to ingest treats "as fast as possible".

She informed the proceedings Ruben had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and minors had previously become sick the next day.

She stated Ruben had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had worries in July 2025.

The legal representative added: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about what was going on, with valid cause.

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

The prosecutor said items including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepson notified the law enforcement about his worries.

She said the defendant went on to play the "treat game" with six youngsters that night - July 26th - and they were all sick the subsequent day.

"Law enforcement" had not gone out by that time," she continued.

The police watchdog, the police conduct office, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.

The legal representative explained the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the stepson notified the law enforcement once more.

She explained the defendant then conducted the "sweet game" in a room of five children.