An individual who spiked treats with tranquilliser and provided them to youngsters at a summer camp in the region has pleaded guilty to sexual offenses against two boys both nine and 10.
The accused was detained after eight children and an older person experienced illness at Stathern Lodge in July.
The senior citizen, from that region, pleaded guilty to a total of 17 charges when he stood at the judicial center on recently.
Yet, he disputed one particular crime he was accused of, which was against a nine-year-old child.
Ruben was kept in jail before a subsequent court date on late November.
'Treat game'
Mary Prior KC, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She said his victims were children from difficult backgrounds who were staying at a youth camp which he managed.
The man played a "sweet game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would access the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and tell them to ingest treats "as fast as possible".
She stated to the judge the defendant had engaged in this activity with the children "over an extended period", and youngsters had previously fallen ill the subsequent day.
She said the man had been successful in rationalizing this repeatedly as the minors being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his family member had suspicions in recently.
The prosecutor added: "Recently" his stepson had worries about the activities, with valid cause.
"They decided to examine in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained materials including lubricant, Vaseline and syringes were found, and his stepchild alerted the police about his concerns.
She said the man proceeded to conduct the "sweet game" with six boys that time - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"The police had not responded by that point," she continued.
The regulatory agency, the investigative body, had stated that it was reviewing law enforcement's management of the incident.
The prosecutor explained the minors were unable to walk properly due to their condition, so the stepson contacted the police a second time.
She stated Ruben then played the "treat game" in a room of five children.
