76-Year-Old Man Remanded in Custody Over Alleged 'Drug-Laced Sweets' at Summer Camp

Leicester, UK – Jon Ruben, a 76-year-old man from Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, has been remanded in custody following accusations that he administered sedative-laced sweets to children at a summer camp in Leicestershire, resulting in multiple hospitalizations. The incident, which occurred between July 25 and July 29, allegedly caused eight boys aged 8 to 11 and one adult to fall ill, though all have since been discharged from the hospital.

Ruben appeared at Leicester Magistrates' Court on Saturday, where he did not enter a plea to the three counts of wilful ill treatment of a child. The charges allege he intentionally harmed or exposed three boys to unnecessary suffering or injury. Leicestershire Police confirmed the investigation into the camp at Stathern Lodge, Stathern, began after reports of children becoming unwell on Sunday, prompting a precautionary hospital transfer.

The case has drawn attention from the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is reviewing the force’s response to the incident. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the alleged substances or the motive behind the actions. Ruben is scheduled to appear at Leicester Crown Court on August 29, where the prosecution will present its case.

Parents and camp staff have expressed shock at the allegations, with some calling for stricter oversight of childcare activities. The IOPC’s involvement underscores concerns about how the police handled the initial report and subsequent investigation. As the case proceeds, officials are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

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