Man Charged After Multiple Children Fall Ill at Leicestershire Camp

John Ruben, a 76-year-old man from Nottinghamshire, has been charged with three counts of wilful ill treatment of a child following an incident at a summer camp in Leicestershire where eight boys aged 8 to 11 and one adult became unwell and were hospitalized as a precaution; all have since been discharged. The charges relate to three different children at the camp held at Stathern Lodge, which is owned by a Christian charity but operated independently from the users of the lodge. Ruben, who has a background as a retired vet, primary school teacher, and church youth worker, was previously recognized as a community champion for his work with youth. He has been remanded into custody and is set to appear at Leicester Magistrates' Court. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation is active and ongoing, urging the public not to speculate on social media, and the Independent Office for Police Conduct is reviewing Leicestershire Police's handling of the case. Officials have also reassured the community that safeguarding measures are being provided to those affected, and the Crown Prosecution Service has highlighted the importance of a fair trial for Ruben.