Boys 'Given Sweets Laced with Sedatives' at Summer Camp — 76-Year-Old Man Appears in Court on Child Cruelty Charges
Overview
A 76-year-old man has appeared in court accused of giving sweets laced with sedatives to young boys at a summer camp in Leicestershire.
Jonathon Ruben, a registered veterinary surgeon and trustee of the Stathern Children’s Holiday Fund (SCHF), was brought before Leicester Magistrates’ Court this morning, charged with three counts of wilful ill-treatment of a child. The charges relate to three boys attending the camp between 25 and 29 July.
The court heard that the alleged offences involve sweets that were deliberately laced with sedatives, causing several children to fall ill.
Mass Illness at Summer Camp
The alarm was raised last Sunday when police received reports of children feeling unwell at Stathern Lodge, a converted farmhouse with sports and catering facilities used by the SCHF charity. Eight boys, aged between eight and 11, and one adult were taken to hospital as a precaution. All have since been discharged.
Ruben, who was arrested on Monday at a local pub, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address during the brief four-minute hearing. He was remanded in custody and will next appear at Leicester Crown Court on 29 August.
Ongoing Police Investigation
Police activity has been ongoing at Ruben’s home in Ruddington, Nottingham, where detectives have been seen removing bags of evidence. Neighbours described the unfolding situation as a “complete and utter shock,” with one local saying:
“He is a lovely guy, and they are a lovely couple. We’re hoping it is all a terrible mistake.”
Leicestershire Police have clarified that Stathern Lodge’s owners and operators are independent from those hiring the venue and are not connected to the incident.
CPS Statement
Janine McKinney, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS East Midlands, said:
“The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised the prosecution of a 76-year-old man with child cruelty offences following a police investigation into a summer camp held at Stathern Lodge.
This has been an extremely upsetting and shocking moment for the community, and especially for the children and parents most directly affected.”
Appeal for Caution
The CPS has reminded the public that active criminal proceedings are underway, urging restraint in public commentary to avoid prejudicing Ruben’s right to a fair trial.
