A man who spiked treats with tranquilliser and provided them to children at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two young males who were nine and 10.
The accused was taken into custody after eight children and a grown-up experienced illness at the facility in the summer month.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at the courthouse on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he denied one particular crime he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
The defendant was kept in jail ahead of a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, handling the case, outlined the criminal behavior to the judicial body.
She stated his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he operated.
The man conducted a "treat game" with the children, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were settling down and tell them to consume candy "as quickly as they can".
She stated to the judge the defendant had played this game with the young males "for many years", and youngsters had earlier experienced illness the subsequent day.
She said the defendant had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
The prosecutor continued: "Recently" his family member had concerns about the activities, for good reason.
"They decided to have a look in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated materials including baby oil, Vaseline and medical needles were discovered, and his family member contacted the law enforcement about his worries.
She said the man went on to conduct the "candy game" with six youngsters that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she continued.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, earlier informed that it was investigating the police response of the incident.
The legal representative said the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member called the law enforcement once more.
She said Ruben then engaged in the "sweet game" in a area of five youngsters.
