An individual who laced sweets with sedative and gave them to children at a youth camp in the area has admitted sexual offences against two young males aged nine and 10.
The accused was arrested after eight minors and one adult became sick at the location in mid-summer.
The senior citizen, from that region, admitted guilt to a total of 17 charges when he appeared at the judicial center on the end of the week.
However, he disputed a single sexual charge he was accused of, which was concerning a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was remanded in custody ahead of a subsequent court date on November 28th.
'Sweet game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, outlined the criminal behavior to the court.
She explained his those affected were disadvantaged youngsters who were staying at a summer camp which he operated.
The defendant played a "treat game" with the children, Mrs Prior said, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge Ruben had played this game with the boys "over an extended period", and children had earlier experienced illness the following morning.
She stated the man had been capable of justifying this for many years as the minors being "overexcited from fun", until his stepchild had suspicions in recently.
Mrs Prior KC added: "In the summer" his stepchild had worries about the situation, with valid cause.
"They decided to examine in the defendant's belongings."
The prosecutor explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and medical needles were found, and his stepchild alerted the police about his concerns.
She said the defendant went on to engage in the "candy game" with six youngsters that night - that Saturday - and they were everyone unwell the following morning.
"Authorities" had not gone out by that point," she stated further.
The police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct, previously told that it was examining the police response of the situation.
Mrs Prior stated the children were struggling to walk due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson notified the law enforcement a second time.
She stated the defendant then conducted the "treat game" in a space of five youngsters.
