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A person who spiked candy with sedative and provided them to minors at a youth camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offences against two boys who were nine and ten years old.

The accused was detained after eight minors and one adult became sick at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.

The 76-year-old, from that region, admitted guilt to a multiple criminal counts when he was present at the judicial center on the end of the week.

Yet, he denied one of the sexual offences he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.

The defendant was kept in jail prior to a further hearing on 28 November.

'Sweet game'

The legal representative, handling the case, described the defendant's actions to the court.

She said his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a summer program which he managed.

The defendant engaged in a "candy game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior stated, in which he would go into the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to ingest treats "rapidly".

She informed the proceedings Ruben had conducted this practice with the young males "for many years", and minors had earlier experienced illness the next day.

She stated the defendant had been capable of justifying this for many years as the minors being "overexcited from fun", until his family member had concerns in summer 2025.

The legal representative stated further: "This year his family member had worries about the situation, with valid cause.

"They resolved" to examine in the individual's items."

The legal counsel explained objects including infant oil, ointment and syringes were found, and his stepson notified the police about his concerns.

She explained the defendant proceeded to engage in the "sweet game" with six boys that night - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the next day.

"Authorities" had not responded by that time," she added.

The regulatory agency, the investigative body, previously told that it was examining law enforcement's management of the incident.

Mrs Prior stated the minors were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson called the law enforcement again.

She said the man then conducted the "sweet game" in a area of five minors.