A 76-year-old man from Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, has had a trial date set after being accused of giving sweets laced with sedatives to children at a summer camp. The alleged incident occurred at Stathern Lodge in Leicestershire last month, leading to three boys falling ill.
What Happened
Jon Ruben is facing charges of child cruelty after three children fell ill at a summer camp at Stathern Lodge, Leicestershire. The incident took place between July 25 and July 29, 2025, when Ruben allegedly gave sweets laced with sedatives to the children. The boys, aged between eight and 11, along with one adult, were taken to the hospital as a precaution but were later discharged. Ruben was arrested shortly after the incident on suspicion of administering poison or a noxious substance to harm or annoy.
Who Is Jon Ruben
Jon Ruben, a 76-year-old man from Wayte Court, Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, is accused of the child cruelty offenses. He appeared at Leicester Crown Court for a brief 16-minute hearing, where he confirmed his name but did not enter a plea. Ruben is remanded in custody until his plea hearing, scheduled for November 14, 2025. A provisional trial date has been set for January 27, 2026, which is expected to last for four weeks.
Background or Timeline
The charges stem from a disturbing incident at Stathern Lodge, where Ruben allegedly offered sweets to children at the summer holiday event. After consuming the sweets, three children fell ill, prompting the event to be reported to the police on July 27, 2025. Police confirmed that eight children, all boys, and one adult were taken to the hospital, but were later discharged.
Ruben was arrested the following day in a nearby pub car park. Authorities initially reported the incident occurred on July 28 but later corrected the date to July 27.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The incident has generated significant concern and shock within the local community and beyond. Neighbors described seeing distressed parents outside the village hall in Plungar, which was used as a triage center for the children on July 28. There has been widespread outcry, particularly among parents and local residents, over the disturbing nature of the allegations.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
Leicestershire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct over its handling of the incident, as public concern grows over the initial misinformation regarding the date of the event. Ruben’s trial is set to begin on January 27, 2026, with the case expected to last four weeks. The community remains in anticipation as the legal process moves forward, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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