This image from video shows Ruby Franke during a hearing on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, in St. George, Utah.
Ruby Franke, a Utah mother of six who gained popularity through her YouTube channel “8 Passengers,” has pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse. Franke was charged with abusing and starving two of her children, and she will now face prison time for her actions.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
During the hearing, Franke stood in jail clothing and pleaded guilty to each of her first three charges. She expressed deep regret and sorrow for her family and children. The judge accepted the plea agreement and scheduled sentencing for February 20. Franke will serve a prison term, and the sentences will run consecutively.
Details of the Abuse
The plea agreement revealed new details of the abuse suffered by Franke’s children. The agreement stated that Franke tortured her son by subjecting him to physical tasks, denying him food, and isolating him from others. Franke also admitted to kicking her son, holding his head underwater, and smothering him. Her daughter was also subjected to similar abuse, including being forced to work outside and go without food and water.
Arrest and Divorce
Franke and her co-defendant, Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested after Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped and asked a neighbor to call the police. The boy was emaciated and had duct tape around his ankles and wrists. Franke’s four youngest children were taken into state custody. In addition to facing criminal charges, Franke’s husband has filed for divorce.
Online Criticism
Franke and her family faced criticism online for their parenting decisions, which were documented on their YouTube channel. Some of these decisions included banning their oldest son from his bedroom for seven months and making threats to punish their children. The YouTube channel, which started in 2015, ended after seven years.
Overall, Ruby Franke’s guilty plea and the details of the abuse she inflicted on her children have shocked and saddened many. The sentencing in February will determine the length of her prison term.