A man who laced treats with sedative and provided them to minors at a youth camp in the region has admitted sexual crimes against two boys both between nine and ten.
The defendant was taken into custody after eight minors and one adult became sick at the facility in the summer month.
The 76-year-old, from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire, admitted guilt to a series of 17 offences when he stood at the courthouse on the end of the week.
Nevertheless, he disputed 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, presenting evidence, described the criminal behavior to the legal proceedings.
She said his targets were children from difficult backgrounds who were attending a summer program which he managed.
The man engaged in a "treat game" with the youngsters, Mrs Prior explained, in which he would enter the sleeping quarters when they were preparing to sleep and request they to eat sweets "as fast as possible".
She told the court the defendant had played this game with the boys "repeatedly", and children had previously become sick the following morning.
She explained the man had been able to explain this over a long period as the children being "overwrought by enjoyment", until his stepson had worries in summer 2025.
Mrs Prior KC added: "Recently" his family member had concerns about the activities, with valid cause.
"They resolved" to have a look in the defendant's belongings."
The legal counsel explained materials including infant oil, petroleum jelly and injection devices were found, and his family member alerted the authorities about his suspicions.
She stated the defendant went on to engage in the "treat game" with six youngsters that evening - Saturday 26 July - and they were everyone unwell the next day.
"The police had not gone out by that point," she continued.
The police watchdog, the police conduct office, previously told that it was examining Leicestershire Police's handling of the events.
The prosecutor said the youngsters were unable to walk properly due to being ill, so the stepson notified the authorities a second time.
She stated the man then conducted the "sweet game" in a room of five children.
