Person pleads guilty to sexual crimes against children at summer camp

An individual who laced sweets with tranquilliser and provided them to youngsters at a summer program in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two children both nine and ten years old.

Jon Ruben was taken into custody after eight children and one adult experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in mid-summer.

The 76-year-old, from that region, pleaded guilty to a series of 17 offences when he stood at the judicial center on the end of the week.

Yet, he denied one particular crime he was facing, which was against a young boy.

The accused was remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing on late November.

'Candy game'

The legal representative, prosecuting, outlined the defendant's actions to the judicial body.

She said his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer program which he managed.

The man played a "sweet game" with the minors, the prosecutor said, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and ask them to consume candy "as fast as possible".

She informed the proceedings Ruben had played this game with the boys "repeatedly", and children had earlier experienced illness the next day.

She said the man had been capable of justifying this over a long period as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had concerns in July 2025.

The legal representative stated further: "Recently" his family member had worries about the activities, with valid cause.

"They resolved" to investigate in the defendant's belongings."

The legal counsel stated items including infant oil, ointment and injection devices were found, and his stepson contacted the law enforcement about his suspicions.

She stated the man went on to engage in the "treat game" with six children that evening - July 26th - and they were all ill the next day.

"The police had not responded by that stage," she continued.

The police watchdog, the investigative body, previously told that it was examining the police response of the events.

The prosecutor said the children were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the family member contacted the police a second time.

She explained the defendant then engaged in the "treat game" in a room of five minors.