A man who laced candy with tranquilliser and distributed them to minors at a youth camp in the area has admitted sexual offences against two children aged nine and 10.
Jon Ruben was arrested after eight children and an older person experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.
The 76-year-old, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at the judicial center on Friday.
Nevertheless, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old boy.
The accused was held in detention before a additional proceeding on November 28th.
'Treat game'
The prosecutor, prosecuting, detailed the criminal behavior to the judicial body.
She explained his those affected were under-privileged children who were participating in a youth camp which he operated.
Ruben conducted a "candy game" with the children, the legal counsel said, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and ask them to ingest treats "rapidly".
She told the court Ruben had conducted this practice with the children "over an extended period", and minors had previously become sick the subsequent day.
She said Ruben had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepchild had suspicions in July 2025.
The legal representative continued: "In the summer" his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to examine in the man's possessions."
The legal counsel stated materials including baby oil, ointment and medical needles were found, and his family member alerted the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She stated Ruben proceeded to play the "candy game" with six youngsters that evening - July 26th - and they were all sick the subsequent day.
"The police had not gone out by that time," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, had stated that it was reviewing the police response of the situation.
The prosecutor stated the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their condition, so the stepson notified the authorities once more.
She stated the defendant then played the "treat game" in a room of five minors.
