M10News: Ruby Franke, a prominent mommy vlogger known for her YouTube channel “8 Passengers,” has been handed a significant sentence after pleading guilty to aggravated child abuse. Franke, a mother of six, received four consecutive sentences ranging from one to 15 years in prison.
This sentencing follows a harrowing case where Franke subjected two of her children to horrific abuse.
Franke’s sentencing occurred in Utah, where state law limits consecutive terms to a maximum of 30 years. Thus, Franke faces up to three decades behind bars, with the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole tasked with determining the final sentence duration.
During her court appearance, Franke emotionally addressed Judge John Walton, expressing remorse for her actions and acknowledging her role in perpetuating harmful beliefs.
In her statement, Franke detailed her journey of grappling with distorted perceptions of the world and religious doctrines, ultimately leading to criminal behaviour.
She expressed a deep desire for personal accountability and emphasized her commitment to unravelling harmful ideologies while serving her sentence. Franke also extended a plea for healing within her family and the broader community affected by her actions.
Following Franke’s sentencing, her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, received a similar sentence of four consecutive terms for her involvement in the abuse. The case came to light in August 2023 when one of Franke’s children managed to escape and seek help from a neighbour, prompting authorities to intervene. The child was found in a severely emaciated state, highlighting the extent of the abuse.
Disgraced YouTuber Ruby Franke (left) and business partner Jodi Hildebrandt (right) admitted charges of aggravated child abuse (Pictures: AP)
Franke’s husband, Kevin Franke, who initiated divorce proceedings, stated his attorney condemning the appalling treatment their children endured. He emphasized the urgent need for rehabilitation and support for the victims to return to normalcy.
Franke gave parenting advice via a once-popular YouTube channel called ‘8 Passengers’ (Picture: Instagram/@moms_of_truth)
Under the plea agreement, Franke admitted to subjecting her son to physical tasks, denial of food, and psychological manipulation, portraying him as evil and deserving punishment.
Defendant Ruby Franke looks on during court on Tuesday (Picture: AP)
The Franke family’s online presence, particularly their YouTube channel, was scrutinized for showcasing controversial parenting decisions.
Videos depicting extreme disciplinary measures, such as banning a child from their bedroom for an extended period and threatening severe consequences for minor transgressions, sparked widespread criticism. The channel, which began in 2015, ceased operations after seven years amidst the unfolding legal proceedings.
Franke during a virtual court appearance in Utah (Picture: AP)
Throughout the trial, Franke and Hildebrandt remained incarcerated, facing charges of aggravated child abuse. Despite Franke’s plea for accountability and remorse, the prosecution highlighted Hildebrandt’s lack of remorse and attempts to shift blame. In addressing Hildebrandt, the judge emphasized the gravity of her actions and the profound impact on the children under her care.
Franke’s case underscores the complexities surrounding online influencers and their responsibilities, mainly when their content involves vulnerable individuals such as children. The sentencing is a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of harmful actions perpetrated in the digital realm.
M10News remains committed to covering developments in this case and shedding light on child welfare issues and accountability in online communities.
