Man Arrested After Children Fall Ill at UK Summer Camp
A 76-year-old man has been arrested in Stathern, Leicestershire, on suspicion of administering a harmful substance at a children’s summer camp, police confirmed Thursday.
Emergency services were dispatched on Sunday following a third-party report. Eight children were hospitalized after falling ill; all have since been discharged, and their families were informed.
The suspect is in custody on charges of administering poison or a noxious substance “with intent to injure, aggrieve, or annoy,” according to Leicestershire Police.
Detective Inspector Neil Holden acknowledged public concern and stated that the investigation is “complex and sensitive.” He said police are coordinating with children’s services to ensure safeguarding for all those affected.
Local MP Edward Argar called the incident “shocking and deeply concerning,” urging the public not to speculate during the ongoing criminal investigation led by the East Midlands Major Incident Team.
In addition, Leicestershire Police have referred their initial response to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which has launched its own inquiry to assess whether procedural failings led to delays in handling the case
