A man who spiked treats with sedative and distributed them to children at a summer camp in the area has admitted sexual crimes against two boys both between nine and ten.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight youngsters and a grown-up experienced illness at the facility in the summer month.
The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at the courthouse on the end of the week.
Yet, he disputed a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
Ruben was remanded in custody ahead of a additional proceeding on late November.
'Candy game'
The legal representative, handling the case, described the criminal behavior to the judicial body.
She said his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a summer program which he managed.
Ruben engaged in a "candy game" with the minors, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to consume candy "rapidly".
She stated to the judge the man had conducted this practice with the children "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the next day.
She explained the man had been able to explain this for many years as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC continued: "In the summer" his stepchild had concerns about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They chose" to have a look in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel explained materials including baby oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his family member contacted the law enforcement about his concerns.
She said the defendant proceeded to conduct the "candy game" with six boys that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she added.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, earlier informed that it was examining law enforcement's management of the situation.
The legal representative said the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their sickness, so Ruben's stepson contacted the police once more.
She said the man then conducted the "sweet game" in a room of five youngsters.
