A person who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and gave them to youngsters at a youth camp in the area has admitted sexual offenses against two boys both between nine and ten.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight youngsters and a grown-up experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.
The elderly man, from that region, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he appeared at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Yet, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was against a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was remanded in custody before a subsequent court date on 28 November.
'Candy game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, detailed the criminal behavior to the court.
She explained his those affected were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a summer program which he managed.
The defendant played a "sweet game" with the minors, the prosecutor explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and tell them to eat sweets "as quickly as they can".
She stated to the judge the defendant had engaged in this activity with the children "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the subsequent day.
She stated the man had been able to explain this for many years as the youngsters being "overexcited from fun", until his stepson had concerns in summer 2025.
The legal representative added: "This year his family member had worries about the activities, for good reason.
"They resolved" to have a look in the man's possessions."
Mrs Prior KC stated materials including infant oil, ointment and medical needles were found, and his stepson contacted the law enforcement about his worries.
She explained the defendant proceeded to engage in the "candy game" with six youngsters that night - that Saturday - and they were all sick the subsequent day.
"Authorities" had not responded by that stage," she added.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, previously told that it was investigating the police response of the situation.
Mrs Prior explained the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the stepson called the law enforcement a second time.
She stated Ruben then conducted the "treat game" in a room of five children.
