Former YouTube Creator Ruby Franke Pleads Guilty to Child Abuse Charges
Ruby Franke, known for her parenting advice channel “8 Passengers” on YouTube, has pleaded guilty to child abuse charges. Franke, a mother of six from Utah, faced charges after her emaciated 12-year-old son sought help from a neighbor, showing signs of restraint and malnourishment.
The Arrest and Charges
Franke was arrested in August when her son escaped from her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt’s home, and asked a neighbor to call the police. The 12-year-old displayed signs of being physically restrained, and his malnourished condition was so severe that he was taken to the hospital. Franke’s 10-year-old daughter was also found in a malnourished state at Hildebrandt’s house. Four of Franke’s children, all under 18, have now been placed in care.
Court Proceedings
In a court appearance, Franke pleaded guilty to each of the first three charges individually and expressed her deepest regret and sorrow for her family and children on the fourth charge. Judge John J. Walton accepted a plea agreement, with sentencing scheduled for February 20. The agreement does not rule out prison time. Franke’s lawyer acknowledged her influence by Hildebrandt, describing it as leading to “a distorted sense of morality.”
Background of Franke’s Parenting Style
Franke’s parenting style and discipline choices on her YouTube channel had been under scrutiny for years. A particular video showing her disciplining her 6-year-old for forgetting her school lunch faced backlash. Viewers had expressed concerns about her methods well before her arrest.
Legal Representation and Statements
Franke’s lawyer stated that she initially believed Hildebrandt could offer a path to continual improvement, but this belief was twisted into something heinous. The lawyer also noted that Hildebrandt had systematically isolated Franke from her family.
