A summer camp leader from Nottinghamshire is facing charges related to disturbing offenses, including drugging his wife and assaulting children. Jon Ruben, 76, has admitted to administering tranquilizers to both his spouse and young campers during his tenure running a holiday camp for over 27 years.
Charges and Admission of Guilt
During a plea hearing at Leicester Crown Court, Ruben wept as he acknowledged his wrongdoing. He confessed to drugging his wife, Susan Ruben, between July 26 and July 29 last year. The intent was to keep her unconscious while he abused children at the camp.
Details of the Assault
- Drug administration involved Temazepam, a potent substance.
- Ruben laced sweets with drugs during a game with children.
- Two boys were sexually assaulted and described significant distress afterward.
In November, the court heard that Ruben pleaded guilty to various charges, including:
- Sexual assault of a child under 13.
- Assault of a child under 13 by penetration.
- Eight counts of child cruelty.
- Three counts related to making indecent images of children.
- Four drug-related charges.
Plea Hearing Insights
Prosecutor Mary Prior KC indicated that Ruben voluntarily approached the police, admitting to the drugging of his wife. His actions had previously come to light when eight children required hospitalization after consuming liquid Xanax.
The Impact on Victims
Several children exhibited severe side effects, struggling with slurred speech and difficulty waking up after participating in Ruben’s “sweet game.” Following these incidents, victims often complained of feeling unwell, but Ruben misled them, attributing their symptoms to being “overwrought.”
Concerns Raised by Family
Worries escalated when Ruben’s stepson found suspicious items in his belongings, including syringes and baby oil. This discovery prompted further investigation into Ruben’s activities.
Indecent Images and Their Severity
Charges related to indecent images included:
- 50 videos classified as category A, the most severe form of child abuse material.
- 22 videos classified as category B.
It is essential to note that none of these images involved children from the summer camp. With sentencing set for Friday, Judge Timothy Spencer KC cautioned Ruben about the severity of his impending punishment. The courtroom awaits a very difficult day for him.
