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A person who spiked treats with tranquilliser and gave them to children at a summer camp in the region has admitted sexual offences against two young males aged between nine and ten.

Jon Ruben was arrested after eight children and one adult became sick at Stathern Lodge in July.

The elderly man, from that region, confessed to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at the judicial center on the end of the week.

Nevertheless, he denied one of the sexual offences he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.

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

'Treat game'

Mary Prior KC, handling the case, detailed the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.

She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.

The man played a "candy game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the boys' rooms when they were getting ready for bed and request they to eat sweets "as fast as possible".

She told the court the man had played this game with the young males "repeatedly", and minors had previously fallen ill the next day.

She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had concerns in recently.

Mrs Prior KC continued: "Recently" his family member had worries about the activities, with valid cause.

"They chose" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."

The prosecutor stated materials including infant oil, ointment and medical needles were located, and his stepson notified the law enforcement about his worries.

She stated Ruben proceeded to engage in the "candy game" with six children that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the next day.

"Law enforcement" had not responded by that stage," she added.

The police watchdog, the police conduct office, had stated that it was reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.

Mrs Prior stated the minors were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the family member notified the authorities once more.

She explained the defendant then played the "treat game" in a room of five youngsters.