Summer Camp poisoner to be sentenced next year

A man who admitted lacing sweets with tranquilliser before going on to abuse two boys at a Leicestershire Summer Camp will be sentenced next year.

76-year-old Jon Ruben from Ruddington in Nottinghamshire was arrested when eight children and one adult fell ill at a summer camp being held at Stathern Lodge, near Melton, in July of this year.

Ruben had already admitted 17 offences at a previous hearing including 8 counts of willful ill treatment of eight seperate children , one count of assault by penetration of a boy under 13 and one count of sexual assault of a boy under 13.

Jon Ruben will be sentenced in February 2026. Photo: Facebook

Ruben pleaded not guilty to a second charge of assault by penetration of a boy under 13. At a hearing today (Thursday) at Leicester Crown Court, Ruben was told by the prosecution that he would not face trial for this charge but it would lie on file.

Prosecutor Mary Prior KC told the judge the outstanding count had been discussed with the victim's family and the police before it was decided there was no public interest in proceeding with a trial.

His Honour Timothy Spencer KC commended this approach.

He said: "I commend that approach. You're saving the family and the child from the obvious distress of a trial."

He added that it is an entirely sensible approach.

Stathern Lodge pictured during the police investigation. Photo: NEMM

Addresing the defendent His Honour Timothy Spencer KC said: "I will sentence you on 6th February. A significant sentence of imprisonment is coming your way, you understand that?"

Responding via video link from HMP Peterborough, Ruben replied: "Yes your honour, I understand that."

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating Leicestershire Police's initial response to the incident in July where concerns were originally raised on Sunday but they didn't attend until Monday.

Ruben has been remanded into custody and will be sentenced for the 17 offences he has pleaded guilty to on Friday 6th February 2026 at Leicester Crown Court.

The Public Portal remains open for anyone who has any information or any concerns in relation to this investigation. Alternatively you can report online at www.leics.police.uk or by calling 101.