A man who led a summer camp and committed sexual assault against children while drugging his wife to prevent her from intervening has been sentenced to prison. Jon Ruben, a former vet aged 76, from Wayte Court in Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, mixed tranquilizing drugs with candy to entice young boys to engage in a deceptive “sweet game” with him.
Ruben also drugged his partner, Susan Ruben, with Temazepam at a summer camp in Stathern Lodge, Leicestershire, resulting in the hospitalization of eight children exhibiting symptoms like slurred speech and drowsiness. The victims were found with liquid Xanax in their systems.
During his sentencing, Ruben, visibly emotional, received a 23-year and 10-month prison term with an additional eight-year “extended licence” period post-release. The court was informed that Ruben exploited his Christian image and authority to drug and sexually abuse 10 boys aged between eight and 11 years old.
Several children fell ill after the “sweet game,” experiencing symptoms like drowsiness and stomach pain. The prosecutor revealed that Ruben illicitly purchased sedatives, expertly calculated dosages from his veterinary background, and administered them in sweets to sedate the children for his gratification.
Susan Ruben expressed feeling utterly betrayed by her husband’s actions, labeling him a sadistic pedophile despite his facade of righteousness. Victims’ families shared the devastating impacts of Ruben’s abuse, with one parent expressing a desire for him to suffer for ruining innocent lives.
Judge Timothy Spencer reassured the victims’ families, stating that Ruben alone was responsible for the heinous acts. Ruben confessed to further charges related to his wife and admitted to administering poisonous substances. The court clarified that the lodge owners were not involved in the incident.
Ruben’s offenses were described as calculated and premeditated, exploiting his authority and trust to sexually exploit vulnerable children. Judge Spencer highlighted Ruben’s manipulation of drugs and veterinary knowledge to facilitate his crimes, emphasizing the long-lasting impact on the victims and their families.
The judge condemned Ruben’s actions as preplanned and nefarious, noting the chilling documentation detailing his calculated dosages. The profound impact of Ruben’s offenses was evident in court testimonies from parents and his wife, underscoring the lasting trauma inflicted on the victims and their families.
