A man who contaminated candy with tranquilliser and provided them to youngsters at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males aged between nine and ten.
Jon Ruben was taken into custody after eight children and a grown-up became sick at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a total of 17 charges when he stood at the judicial center on recently.
Yet, he denied one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old boy.
Ruben was kept in jail prior to a further hearing on late November.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, detailed Ruben's offending to the court.
She explained his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
The defendant engaged in a "sweet game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and request they to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge the defendant had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the following morning.
She explained the defendant had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had suspicions in summer 2025.
The legal representative added: "In the summer" his stepchild had concerns about the situation, justifiably.
"They decided to have a look in the man's possessions."
Mrs Prior KC explained objects including infant oil, ointment and syringes were located, and his stepchild notified the authorities about his suspicions.
She said Ruben proceeded to conduct the "sweet game" with six youngsters that evening - July 26th - and they were all sick the next day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she continued.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was examining law enforcement's management of the situation.
The legal representative explained the minors were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson contacted the law enforcement once more.
She said Ruben then conducted the "candy game" in a space of five children.
