A 76-year-old man from Nottinghamshire has been remanded in custody after being charged with multiple child cruelty offences, following a disturbing incident at a summer camp in Leicestershire. Jon Ruben, of Ruddington, appeared at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Saturday in connection with the alleged distribution of sedative-laced sweets to children.
The charges stem from an incident that took place last Sunday at Stathern Lodge, near Melton, where a group of children attending a summer camp reportedly began feeling unwell.
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Emergency services were called to the scene, and eight boys aged between eight and eleven were taken to hospital as a precaution, along with one adult. Thankfully, all have since been discharged and are recovering.
Leicestershire Police confirmed that Ruben has been charged with three counts of wilfully assaulting, ill-treating, neglecting, abandoning, or exposing children in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health. The charges specifically relate to allegations that he gave the children sweets that were laced with a sedative substance.
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During the brief court appearance, Ruben spoke only to confirm his name, age, and address. No pleas were entered. The case has now been referred to Leicester Crown Court, where Ruben is due to appear on 29 August.
The incident has raised serious concerns among parents and community members, especially given the vulnerable age of the children involved and the setting of what was supposed to be a safe and enjoyable summer camp experience.
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