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Summer Camp Leader Who Drugged Children Faces February Sentencing After Charge Dropped

Prosecutors dropped one assault-by-penetration count after consulting the victim’s family and police.

Overview

  • Jon Ruben, 76, pleaded guilty to sexual assault of a child under 13, assault of a child under 13 by penetration, eight counts of child cruelty, four drug offences and three indecent-image offences.
  • Judge Timothy Spencer KC said a significant prison term is expected, with sentencing set for February 6, 2026 at Leicester Crown Court.
  • The court heard he crushed or injected sedatives into sweets in a “sweet game,” leaving children dazed, vomiting or unconscious.
  • Eight children were taken to hospital after a July 27 report to police, and liquid Xanax was identified among substances used.
  • The indecent images involved 50 Category A, 22 Category B and seven Category C videos made between August 2023 and June 2025, none featuring children from the camp.