The Disturbing Case of Child Abuse Involving Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke

News: Recently, a shocking case of child abuse has made headlines, involving Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke, well-known personalities on social media platforms. This distressing discovery has shed light on the dark underbelly of online influencers and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals, especially children. In this article, we will delve into the details of the case, including the guilty plea, downfall, arrest and investigation, sickening abuse, and its impact on the family.

Jodi Hildebrandt’s Guilty Plea

Jodi Hildebrandt, accused of multiple counts of child abuse, recently entered a guilty plea in a Salt Lake City courtroom. This admission of guilt came after her former associate, Ruby Franke, implicated her as part of her own plea bargain with prosecutors. Hildebrandt showed visible emotion during the hearing, where she confessed to four out of six child abuse counts against her. This significant development sheds light on the extent of the abuse that was carried out under the guise of family counseling and advice.

The Downfall of Ruby Franke

Ruby Franke, popular for her YouTube channel “8 Passengers,” chronicling her life in Utah with her family, faced a tarnished reputation when allegations of child abuse surfaced. Although her YouTube channel was removed, Franke continued her association with Hildebrandt, collaborating on the counseling program ConneXions. However, their partnership unraveled as the sinister nature of their actions came to light, leading to Franke’s arrest and subsequent guilty plea. Her downfall serves as a stark reminder of the hidden darkness behind social media influencers.

The Arrest and Investigation

The shocking reality of the abuse emerged when one of Franke’s children managed to escape from Hildebrandt’s house in Ivins, Utah, seeking help from a neighbor. The police were immediately alerted, leading to the discovery of another child in a severely malnourished state, with evidence of being restrained with duct tape. The subsequent investigation by Ivins police resulted in Hildebrandt’s arrest and Franke’s arrest at her home in Springville, Utah. This disturbing event led to four of Franke’s underage children being placed under the care of the Utah Department of Child and Family Services, highlighting the swift response by authorities in protecting the children.

Sickening Abuse

The extent of the abuse inflicted by Franke on her children, as documented in court records, is deeply disturbing. Franke admitted to physically torturing her children, employing methods such as kicking them with boots, holding their heads underwater, and obstructing their airways. She also confessed to handcuffing and shackling two of her children, starving them, and subjecting them to harsh labor under the scorching summer sun. This horrifying treatment was rationalized by Franke as a form of repentance for their alleged sins, convincing her children that they were evil and possessed. The severe emotional and physical harm inflicted on the children is a testament to the abhorrent nature of Franke’s actions.

Sentencing and Family Impact

Ruby Franke is set to be sentenced for her guilty plea on February 20, 2024, and could face up to 60 years in prison. Since the announcement of her guilty plea, one of her daughters has publicly discussed the effects of the abuse, including physical symptoms associated with trauma and anxiety. This case sheds light on the hidden realm of domestic abuse and the grave implications it has on victims, particularly children. It also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of exercising caution when trusting online personalities and safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

The case involving Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke has brought to light a disturbing reality of child abuse and manipulation, which took place under the guise of family counseling. The guilty pleas, arrest, and subsequent investigation have exposed the dark side of social media influencers, reminding us of the need for caution and vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring their safety. Let this serve as a warning to all, emphasizing the importance of exercising due diligence when it comes to online interactions and the potential consequences of misplaced trust.

FAQ’s

Q: How did the abuse come to light?

A: The abuse came to light when one of Ruby Franke’s children managed to escape from Jodi Hildebrandt’s house and sought help from a neighbor.

Q: What was the extent of the abuse?

A: The abuse included physical torture, such as kicking, restraining with duct tape, and depriving the children of food and water. Franke also subjected them to harsh labor and convinced them they were evil and possessed.

Q: What are the consequences for Ruby Franke?

A: Ruby Franke could face up to 60 years in prison for her guilty plea.