A man who laced sweets with tranquilliser and gave them to youngsters at a summer program in the region has confessed to sexual offences against two boys both nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and a grown-up fell ill at the facility in July.
The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he was present at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he refused to admit one of the sexual offences he was accused of, which was involving a young boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody prior to a further hearing on November 28th.
'Candy game'
The prosecutor, presenting evidence, detailed the defendant's actions to the court.
She stated his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
The defendant played a "candy game" with the minors, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to consume candy "rapidly".
She told the court the defendant had engaged in this activity with the boys "for many years", and minors had previously become sick the following morning.
She said Ruben had been able to explain this over a long period as the minors being "overstimulated by activities", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "Recently" his stepson had suspicions about what was going on, for good reason.
"They chose" to examine in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel said objects including lubricant, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepchild contacted the police about his concerns.
She explained the man proceeded to play the "sweet game" with six youngsters that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the next day.
"The police had not arrived by that stage," she added.
The oversight body, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, had stated that it was examining law enforcement's management of the situation.
The legal representative said the children were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the family member notified the law enforcement again.
She stated the man then played the "treat game" in a space of five children.
