A trusted Nottingham camp organiser is jailed after using dark web drugs to sedate children and carry out serious abuse.
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Jon Ruben was widely regarded as a respected figure in Nottingham. A retired veterinary surgeon, he organised free Christian summer camps for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, offering outdoor activities aimed at building confidence and life skills.
The three-day camps, held annually at Stathern Lodge outside the city, were consistently oversubscribed, with places filled months in advance. Charitable organizations supported the initiative with substantial donations, and many in the community viewed Ruben as a positive role model for young people.
That reputation has now been destroyed.
The 76-year-old has been jailed for 23 years and 10 months after admitting to sexually abusing two children at the camp, alongside multiple counts of child cruelty and offences involving indecent images of children.
carry out his crimes (Leicestershire Police)
Ruben exploited his position of trust by drugging children using sweets that had been secretly injected with a fast-acting tranquilliser. Investigators said the drugs, purchased on the dark web, left the children sedated and unable to recall events clearly the following day. He also drugged his wife, who helped run the camp, to avoid detection.
The offending came to light when Ruben’s step-son raised concerns after discovering syringes, drugs and other suspicious items in his room at the lodge.
Temporary Detective Inspector Neil Holden of Leicestershire Police described Ruben as a “dangerous offender” who deliberately targeted vulnerable children. Officers said Ruben used his professional knowledge to select drugs that would have the intended sedative effect.
Medical examinations confirmed abuse, while searches of Ruben’s accommodation and electronic devices uncovered further evidence, including a large quantity of indecent images of children. Police also found written material indicating Ruben’s sexual interest in children and contact with online paedophile groups.
During interviews, Ruben initially refused to answer questions and later showed little remorse, officers said.
The case has deeply shaken the local community. In Ruben’s home village of Ruddington, residents and church members described the revelations as a profound shock and betrayal, while emphasising their support for the victims and their families.
Ruben’s charity, The Stathern Children’s Holiday Fund, also operated school clubs for more than 100 children. Demand for camp places remained high in 2024, with dozens of children attending themed activity trips supported by grants and donations.
Several donor organisations said they were unaware of Ruben’s crimes at the time of their contributions and had no role in running the camps. Police confirmed Ruben acted alone.
Stathern Lodge, which is independently managed, continues to operate summer programmes. Members of the local church community said efforts were now focused on healing and ensuring such abuses never happen again.
Reports are sourced from official documents, law-enforcement updates, and credible investigations.
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