Person admits sexual offenses involving young males at youth camp
A man who spiked treats with sedative and gave them to minors at a summer program in the area has confessed to sexual offences against two boys both between nine and ten.
The accused was taken into custody after eight youngsters and one adult experienced illness at the location in July.
The 76-year-old, from that region, pleaded guilty to a total of 17 charges when he was present at the courthouse on Friday.
Yet, he denied a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was involving a nine-year-old child.
The accused was kept in jail ahead of a further hearing on 28 November.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, described the defendant's actions to the court.
She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were staying at a summer program which he operated.
The man played a "sweet game" with the children, the prosecutor stated, in which he would go into the boys' rooms when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to ingest treats "as quickly as they can".
She stated to the judge the defendant had conducted this practice with the young males "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the next day.
She said the man had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overexcited from fun", until his stepchild had suspicions in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "In the summer" his stepchild had concerns about the activities, justifiably.
"They decided to examine in the individual's items."
The legal counsel explained materials including baby oil, petroleum jelly and injection devices were located, and his family member notified the police about his concerns.
She said Ruben proceeded to engage in the "treat game" with six youngsters that time - July 26th - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she added.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, had stated that it was examining the police response of the incident.
The legal representative stated the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the stepson called the law enforcement a second time.
She stated Ruben then played the "candy game" in a room of five minors.
