Midlands Summer Camp Leader Admits Drugging Wife to Facilitate Child Abuse
A 76-year-old summer camp leader from the Midlands has pleaded guilty to administering a sedative drug to his wife to prevent her from waking while he sexually assaulted children at a holiday lodge in Leicestershire. Jon Ruben, a former veterinary professional, appeared at Leicester Crown Court on Wednesday, February 4, where he sobbed in the dock and expressed remorse for his actions.
Details of the Disturbing Crimes
The court heard that Ruben administered Temazapam, a potent tranquiliser, to his wife Susan Ruben between July 26 and 29 last year. This calculated act was designed to ensure she remained unconscious while he carried out sexual assaults on young victims at Stathern Lodge in Stathern, Leicestershire. Ruben had previously admitted to sexually assaulting two boys at the summer camp and committing acts of child cruelty against six other victims.
Method of Operation and Previous Convictions
Investigations revealed that Ruben, who operated the holiday camp for at least 27 years, employed particularly insidious methods to target children. He laced sweets with tranquillising drugs, including crushed medications and Liquid Xanax, which he then offered to victims under the guise of playing "a sweet game." This manipulation allowed him to carry out his predatory behaviour while the children were incapacitated.
In November, Ruben pleaded guilty to multiple serious offences including two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, eight counts of child cruelty, three counts of making indecent images of children, and four drugs charges. The defendant, formerly of Wayte Court in Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, now faces a substantial prison sentence when he returns to court for sentencing on Friday, February 6.
Context and Police Statement
Leicestershire Police have clarified that the owners and operators of Stathern Lodge were independent from those who used or hired the facility for events. The force confirmed that the lodge management were "not connected to the incident" in any way, emphasising that this was an isolated case involving an individual perpetrator rather than any institutional failing.
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised serious questions about safeguarding procedures at independent holiday camps. As the legal process continues, authorities are emphasising their commitment to protecting vulnerable children and bringing those who exploit them to justice.
