A person who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and provided them to minors at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two boys who were nine and 10.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight children and one adult became sick at the location in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, pleaded guilty to a total of 17 charges when he stood at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he refused to admit one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old child.
The defendant was remanded in custody ahead of a additional proceeding on 28 November.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the judicial body.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer program which he managed.
The man played a "sweet game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor said, in which he would go into the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to eat sweets "rapidly".
She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the children "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She stated Ruben had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "This year his stepchild had worries about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to investigate in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor explained materials including lubricant, Vaseline and injection devices were located, and his family member contacted the police about his concerns.
She stated the man continued to play the "treat game" with six children that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were all ill the subsequent day.
"The police had not arrived by that point," she stated further.
The regulatory agency, the police conduct office, previously told that it was investigating law enforcement's management of the situation.
The prosecutor said the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member called the law enforcement once more.
She stated Ruben then engaged in the "candy game" in a space of five minors.
