Elderly man, aged 76, accused of criminal charges, following incidents of children falling sick at a summer camp
A 76-year-old man, Jonathon Ruben, has been charged with three counts of wilful ill-treatment (child cruelty offences) following an incident at a summer camp held at Stathern Lodge near Melton, Leicestershire[1][3]. On Sunday, eight boys aged between eight and 11, along with an adult, were taken to the hospital as a precaution, but have since been discharged[1][2].
The investigation into the incident is still ongoing, and authorities have urged the public not to speculate on social media, as the matter remains sensitive[1]. It has been confirmed that the owners and operators of Stathern Lodge are separate from those who use or hire the venue and are not connected to the incident[1].
The Crown Prosecution Service has authorized the prosecution of Jonathon Ruben following a police investigation and review of evidence[1][3]. The specific charges against him are three offences of wilful ill-treatment of a child, each relating to a different boy[1][3].
Leicestershire Police arrested Jonathon Ruben on Monday evening at a pub on suspicion of administering poison or a noxious thing with intent to injure, aggrieve or annoy[1]. The decision to prosecute was made after reviewing a file of evidence from Leicestershire Police[1].
Jonathon Ruben is due to appear at Leicester Magistrates' Court on August 1, 2025[1][3]. Leicestershire Police are continuing to work closely with partners to ensure full safeguarding is provided to all those affected[1]. The statement from Leicestershire Police also acknowledges that the incident has been an extremely upsetting and shocking moment for the community, and especially for the children and parents most directly affected[1].
The police received a report of children feeling unwell at the camp on Sunday[1]. Leicestershire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct over its handling of the incident[1]. The community is urged to continue supporting each other during this difficult time.
[1] Source: Leicestershire Police press release, 2022. [2] Source: Leicester Mercury, 2022. [3] Source: BBC News, 2022.
The complicated nature of this incident, involving child cruelty offences at a summer camp, has garnered attention in both general news and politics, stirring public concern. The ongoing investigation into the matter, led by Leicestershire Police, has produced charges against 76-year-old Jonathon Ruben for three counts of wilful ill-treatment, in the realm of crime and justice.
