Man confesses to sexual crimes targeting young males at summer camp
A person who laced sweets with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a youth camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two young males both nine and 10.
The defendant was detained after eight minors and a grown-up became sick at the location in the summer month.
The senior citizen, from that region, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at the courthouse on Friday.
However, he denied one of the sexual offences he was facing, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was kept in jail before a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, handling the case, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She explained his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
Ruben conducted a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor stated, in which he would go into the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and request they to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She told the court the man had conducted this practice with the children "repeatedly", and children had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "This year his stepson had suspicions about the activities, for good reason.
"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained materials including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepson contacted the authorities about his concerns.
She stated the defendant went on to conduct the "candy game" with six children that night - July 26th - and they were all ill the subsequent day.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that point," 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 being ill, so the family member notified the authorities again.
She stated Ruben then conducted the "candy game" in a space of five children.
