Staff Reports
In an unexpected twist that shook the online community, Ruby Franke, the familiar face behind the popular parenting advice channel "8 Passengers," has found herself entangled in a distressing legal matter. The YouTuber recently pleaded guilty to four felony counts of second-degree aggravated child abuse, a stark departure from her role as a parenting influencer.
Youtuber Ruby Franke, whose emaciated son escaped home, admits starving her children https://t.co/9RJyHnKBR8 pic.twitter.com/2vQrKyv8Pm
— New York Post (@nypost) December 18, 2023
Known for her guidance on family matters, Franke's public image took a drastic turn following allegations of mistreatment and starvation inflicted upon two of her six children. Adorned in jail attire, Franke appeared in court, expressing profound remorse and contrition for her actions. The looming date of her sentencing on February 20th hangs uncertain, leaving the possibility of imprisonment looming over her head.
Her attorney, LaMar Winward, shed light on a distressing aspect of the case, highlighting the influence of a relationship counselor named Jodi Hildebrandt. Winward claimed that Hildebrandt led Franke astray, distorting her moral compass and instigating abusive behavior towards her own children. Allegedly, Hildebrandt orchestrated Franke's isolation from her family, manipulating her into these reprehensible actions.
The harrowing abuse came to light when Franke's 12-year-old son bravely escaped from Hildebrandt's residence, seeking refuge from a concerned neighbor who promptly alerted the authorities. Shockingly malnourished and restrained with duct tape around his limbs, the boy's plight signaled the gravity of the situation. Franke's 10-year-old daughter was also discovered at Hildebrandt's home, prompting their immediate hospitalization. Meanwhile, Franke's four youngest children found themselves under state custody.
The ordeal has taken an emotional toll on the Franke family, culminating in Kevin Franke, Ruby's husband, filing for divorce. As Franke and Hildebrandt navigate their impending court hearings, the severity of the charges against them hangs heavy. Despite the turmoil, Franke's attorney emphasized her contemplative phase and her determination to face the consequences of her actions.
