Family vlogger Ruby Franke convicted of child abuse
OAN’s Elizabeth Volberding
11:15 AM – Tuesday, February 20, 2024
A Utah district judge sentenced former family Youtube vlogger Ruby Franke to four one-to-15 year terms in prison, putting an end to the months-long child abuse lawsuit filed against the mother of six.
Ruby Franke, a mom who had gained online popularity for her parenting advice on the YouTube channel “8 Passengers” was charged, along with her business partner, for assaulting her children both “physically and mentally.”
A Utah court will set the exact prison sentences for the two on Tuesday. The amount of time Franke is imprisoned will also be decided by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole.
Franke and mental health counselor Jodi Hildebrandt had attempted to persuade Franke’s two youngest children that they were evil, possessed, and in need of punishment.
As a result, this led to their guilty pleas to the four counts of aggravated child abuse, which allowed them to speak for the first time at their consecutive sentencing hearings in southern Utah. Both women entered into plea deals with Judge John J. Walton, in which they received their prison terms and were provided with a detailed account of their offenses.
During the sentencing hearing, Franke broke down in tears and apologized to her children, the audio was streamed live on Utah Court’s website.
“I … believed dark was light and right was wrong,” Franke said. “I would do anything in this world for you. I took from you all that was soft, and safe, and good.”
Franke also acknowledged Judge John Walton and the courtroom.
“For the past four years, I’ve chosen to follow counsel and guidance that has led me into a dark delusion,” she said. “My distorted version of reality went largely unchecked as I would isolate myself from anyone who challenged me.”
Hildebrandt, Franke’s business partner, is anticipated to receive a term as well. In December 2023, after being charged with six charges of felony child abuse, the two women entered a guilty plea to four counts of second-degree aggravated child abuse.
In August 2023, police initially discovered that one of Franke’s sons was malnourished with open wounds as well as restrained with duct tape. This led to the arrest of both Franke and Hildebrandt.
Franke’s son had escaped and made his way from Hildebrandt’s residence to a neighbor’s house, pleading for food and water. In Hildebrandt’s house, one of Franke’s daughters was also similarly discovered in a state of malnutrition.
Franke faced major criticism after posting recordings of herself threatening to throw away her children’s valuable belongings and refusing to give her then-6-year-old daughter lunch when the child had forgotten to pack food for herself.
Franke is nowhere near an A-list celebrity, however, her case has attracted much media attention. Online commenters expressed their opinions on the matter, saying that it has contributed to bringing back interest regarding the negative aspects of family vlogging channels.
Franke gained notoriety on YouTube with her now-vanished channel “8 Passengers,” which had 2.3 million subscribers on the video platform. Additionally, Franke and Hildebrandt frequently worked together on controversial parenting and relationship advice videos. Due to Frankes’ harsh parenting style, some viewers had already reported them to the police.
Since her arrest, Franke has been detained without being allowed to post bond. According to the law firm defending her, in December 2023, Franke stated that she is attempting “personal growth and rehabilitation” by reaching out to and making amends with her family.
Furthermore, Franke’s attorneys said that over a long period of time, Hildebrandt “systematically isolated” Franke from her family, which led to Franke becoming influenced by Hildebrandt and developing a “distorted sense of morality.”
In addition, Ruby’s husband, Kevin Franke, filed for divorce in November 2023. In September, his lawyer, Randy Kester, explained to media outlets that the pair had been split up for 13 months “at Ruby’s directive.”
At the time of the divorce petition, Ruby’s attorneys noted that while she was “devastated” by the news, she appreciated Kevin’s decision and understood his reasoning. The statement also highlighted that she was willing to give her “full cooperation” to try to reunite their children with their father.
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Why is it important for parents who use social media to prioritize the well-being and safety of their children?
Heroes,” Franke said, “I am so sorry that I contributed to your pain.” pic.twitter.com/7dFKucq375
In response to the sentencing, many social media users expressed relief that justice had been served for Franke’s children. They commended the court for holding the former vlogger accountable for her abusive actions.
Child abuse cases involving public figures, especially those who have built a following online, raise important questions about the responsibility of influential individuals. It serves as a reminder that popularity and fame should not exempt anyone from scrutiny or consequences for their actions.
Parents who use social media as a platform to share their parenting experiences should remember that they have a moral obligation to prioritize the well-being and safety of their children. It is crucial for them to maintain a healthy and nurturing environment, both online and offline.
Fortunately, this case has shed light on the potential dangers of exploiting children for fame or monetary gain. It serves as a wake-up call for society to be vigilant and protective of vulnerable individuals, especially children who may not have a voice of their own.
The entire ordeal has been a painful reminder of the importance of recognizing and reporting child abuse. It is essential for communities to stay vigilant and report any suspicions of abuse to the appropriate authorities.
While this case has had a distressing impact on Franke’s children, it is hopeful that through therapy and support, they can begin the healing process. It is crucial that the justice system ensures their safety and provides them with the necessary resources to rebuild their lives.
As for Ruby Franke, her sentencing serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law. It is a call for accountability and the swift condemnation of abusive behavior. Hopefully, this case will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider mistreating or exploiting their children.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Ruby Franke brings closure to a distressing chapter that has captivated public attention. It underscores the importance of protecting children and holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their public image or popularity. May this case serve as a catalyst for change, pushing society to prioritize the welfare and safety of the most vulnerable among us.
This article was originally published on One America News Network (OAN) and has been republished with permission.
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