Social Worker Charged After Meth, Steroids Found at Home and Workplace

Kenneth Ruben accused of bringing drugs to his job at Family Service Lincoln and operating a steroid lab out of his Waverly residence

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a pile of small plastic bags containing white powder, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the discovery of illicit drugs in a social worker's possession.The discovery of illicit drugs and a makeshift steroids lab in a social worker's home and workplace raises troubling questions about oversight and screening procedures.Lincoln Today

A 44-year-old former social services worker in Lincoln, Nebraska named Kenneth Ruben has been charged with multiple felonies after authorities discovered packages of methamphetamine and cocaine being delivered to his home, as well as an apparent steroid lab operating out of his Waverly residence. Ruben was arrested at his workplace, Family Service Lincoln, where investigators also found drug residue in the basement.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of drug trafficking and illicit drug manufacturing operations being run out of workplaces and homes, putting vulnerable populations like children at risk. It also raises concerns about the screening and oversight of social service workers who are entrusted to help the community.

The details

According to court records, Ruben faces five felony charges related to methamphetamine, cocaine, and other substances. Police were alerted to two packages being delivered to Ruben's home, which they watched him pick up before going to work. At his workplace, Ruben was found with a backpack and plastic bag containing over 2 pounds of meth, as well as cocaine and steroid vials. A search of his home uncovered a makeshift steroid lab in the garage, along with THC products, marijuana, and pills that were easily accessible to two children also living there.

  • On Thursday, authorities were made aware of two packages being delivered to Ruben's home.
  • On Friday, Ruben was arraigned and a judge set his bond at 10% of $750,000.

The players

Kenneth Ruben

A 44-year-old former social services worker in Lincoln, Nebraska who has been charged with multiple felonies related to drug trafficking and manufacturing steroids.

Melissa Ballance

A 37-year-old woman who was cited and released for misdemeanor child abuse after the search of Ruben's home, where two children were living.

Dennis Hoffman

The President and CEO of Family Service Lincoln, where Ruben was employed before his termination.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This was disturbing news to us, and we are doing everything we can to cooperate with the investigation.”

— Dennis Hoffman, President and CEO of Family Service Lincoln

What’s next

Ruben is being held on $750,000 bond and is expected to face a judge again next week to determine if he will be released on bail pending trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious risks posed by drug trafficking and illicit manufacturing operations being run out of workplaces and homes, especially when they involve vulnerable populations like children. It raises questions about the need for stronger screening and oversight of social service workers to prevent such incidents in the future.