A man who contaminated treats with tranquilliser and distributed them to children at a youth camp in the area has confessed to sexual offenses against two boys who were between nine and ten.
Jon Ruben was detained after eight children and a grown-up became sick at Stathern Lodge in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from that region, confessed to a multiple criminal counts when he stood at the courthouse on Friday.
Yet, he refused to admit a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was involving a young boy.
The accused was remanded in custody before a further hearing on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She stated his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were attending a summer camp which he ran.
Ruben played a "treat game" with the youngsters, the prosecutor said, in which he would access the children's bedrooms when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She told the court Ruben had played this game with the boys "repeatedly", and youngsters had previously become sick the following morning.
She stated the man had been successful in rationalizing this over a long period as the children being "overstimulated by activities", until his stepson had concerns in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC stated further: "Recently" his family member had concerns about the activities, for good reason.
"They decided to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
Mrs Prior KC explained items including lubricant, Vaseline and medical needles were found, and his stepson notified the law enforcement about his suspicions.
She explained the defendant proceeded to engage in the "treat game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all sick the next day.
"Authorities" had not arrived by that time," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, had stated that it was examining law enforcement's management of the situation.
The legal representative said the youngsters were having difficulty walking due to being ill, so the family member contacted the authorities a second time.
She stated the defendant then conducted the "sweet game" in a space of five minors.
