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In a shocking revelation that has left a community in disbelief, Jon Ruben, a once-respected summer camp leader and retired veterinary surgeon, was sentenced to nearly 24 years in prison for drugging and sexually abusing children at his camp in Nottingham. The 76-year-old exploited his position to lure vulnerable youngsters into a web of manipulation and abuse, shattering the trust of families who believed he was a guiding light for their children.
A Community’s Pillar Turned Predator
For many years, Jon Ruben was synonymous with kindness and community spirit in Nottingham. He organised an annual free Christian summer camp, providing children from less privileged backgrounds with an opportunity to escape the struggles of urban life. The camp, held at Stathern Lodge, became a cherished institution, filled with outdoor activities and educational pursuits aimed at fostering self-esteem and confidence among its young attendees.
“Jon was like a guiding light for many young kids in the city,” a local resident explained, highlighting the profound impact he had on the community. The camp thrived on generous donations from charitable organisations, drawing hundreds of children eager for summer adventures. However, behind this façade of benevolence lay a sinister secret.
The “Sweet Game” That Concealed Horror
Under the guise of a playful game dubbed the “sweet game,” Ruben enticed children with brightly wrapped sweets, challenging them to eat them quickly for rewards. Unbeknownst to his unsuspecting victims, these treats had been laced with a fast-acting tranquilliser, rendering the children helpless and unconscious. It was during these vulnerable moments that Ruben perpetrated his heinous acts of abuse.
The horrific truth came to light when his step-son discovered syringes and drugs in Ruben’s quarters at the camp. This alarming find led to an investigation that would unveil the depths of his depravity. On February 6, 2026, Ruben was sentenced to 23 years and 10 months after pleading guilty to multiple counts of child cruelty and making indecent images of children.
The Community’s Response and Ongoing Shock
The revelations have sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of Ruddington, where Ruben was well-known and respected. His home, once bustling with activity, now stands as a stark reminder of betrayal, with neighbours reluctant to discuss the case. Outside St Peter’s Church, a gathering point for many who knew him, attendees expressed their disbelief and heartbreak over the situation.
“It’s been a huge betrayal of the church, its community, the whole city – my thoughts are with his victims and their families,” one parishioner remarked, encapsulating the sentiment of many who are grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy.
Ruben had also been involved in running after-school clubs for children in the area, further extending his reach into the lives of the young. His charity, the Stanthern Children’s Holiday Fund, had received significant funding and support, all of which now feels tainted by his actions.
The Need for Vigilance
As the community begins to process the fallout, there is a growing awareness of the need for vigilance in safeguarding children. The police have emphasised the importance of recognising the signs of abuse, especially in individuals who hold positions of trust. Temporary Detective Inspector Neil Holden described Ruben as “a vile, horrific offender” who manipulated his standing to gain access to vulnerable children.
While the camp at Stathern Lodge continues to operate under new management, the legacy of Ruben’s actions will linger, reminding everyone of the critical need for safeguarding measures and community vigilance.
Why it Matters
The tragic case of Jon Ruben serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can lurk within trusted figures in our communities. It highlights the crucial importance of vigilance and transparency in organisations that work with children, ensuring that their safety and well-being are always paramount. As communities come together to support victims and rebuild trust, it is essential to foster an environment where children can flourish without fear, and where those who seek to exploit them are held accountable.
