An individual who contaminated treats with sedative and gave them to youngsters at a youth camp in the area has pleaded guilty to sexual crimes against two young males aged nine and ten years old.
The accused was detained after eight children and one adult experienced illness at the location in the summer month.
The elderly man, from that region, pleaded guilty to a multiple criminal counts when he appeared at the judicial center on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he denied a single sexual charge he was charged with, which was concerning a young boy.
The defendant was held in detention prior to a further hearing on 28 November.
'Treat game'
The legal representative, handling the case, described the defendant's actions to the legal proceedings.
She explained his targets were disadvantaged youngsters who were participating in a summer camp which he operated.
The defendant conducted a "candy game" with the children, the prosecutor said, in which he would go into the sleeping quarters when they were getting ready for bed and request they to consume candy "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge Ruben had conducted this practice with the boys "for many years", and youngsters had previously become sick the subsequent day.
She explained the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the youngsters being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had concerns in July 2025.
The legal representative stated further: "Recently" his stepchild had concerns about what was going on, with valid cause.
"They decided to examine in the man's possessions."
The prosecutor explained materials including baby oil, ointment and injection devices were located, and his family member notified the law enforcement about his concerns.
She stated the man went on to engage in the "candy game" with six boys that night - July 26th - and they were all ill the following morning.
"Law enforcement" had not responded by that time," she continued.
The police watchdog, the investigative body, previously told that it was examining the police response of the events.
The legal representative explained the youngsters were struggling to walk due to their condition, so Ruben's stepson called the authorities again.
She said the defendant then played the "treat game" in a area of five youngsters.
