An individual who spiked treats with sleeping medication and gave them to youngsters at a summer camp in the region has admitted sexual crimes against two boys both nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight children and an older person became sick at the location in July.
The senior citizen, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court on the end of the week.
Yet, he denied one particular crime he was facing, which was against a young boy.
The defendant was remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing on late November.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined Ruben's offending to the legal proceedings.
She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
Ruben conducted a "sweet game" with the children, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would enter the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and request they to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She told the court Ruben had played this game with the young males "over an extended period", and minors had earlier experienced illness the next day.
She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in recently.
The legal representative added: "This year his family member had concerns about the activities, justifiably.
"They decided to examine in the individual's items."
Mrs Prior KC explained materials including lubricant, petroleum jelly and injection devices were located, and his family member contacted the law enforcement about his concerns.
She explained Ruben continued to conduct the "treat game" with six children that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were all sick the next day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that time," she continued.
The police watchdog, the police conduct office, had stated that it was investigating Leicestershire Police's handling of the situation.
The prosecutor stated the children were unable to walk properly due to their sickness, so the stepson notified the law enforcement again.
She explained Ruben then played the "treat game" in a space of five minors.
