A popular mommy vlogger, Ruby Franke, known for her parenting advice on YouTube, has been sentenced to four consecutive terms of one to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to aggravated child abuse of two of her children. Franke, a mother of six, admitted to subjecting her two youngest children to a campaign of abuse, including physical torture and emotional manipulation.
The horrific abuse came to light when one of Franke’s sons escaped from the home of her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, and sought help from neighbors. The 12-year-old boy was found emaciated and covered in wounds, with duct tape around his ankles and wrists. Both Franke and Hildebrandt were arrested and charged with multiple counts of aggravated child abuse.
During her sentencing, Franke tearfully addressed the court, expressing remorse for her actions and acknowledging her responsibility. She spoke of her desire to seek redemption and undergo a process of rehabilitation while serving her sentence.
Hildebrandt, too, was sentenced to four consecutive terms of one to 15 years after pleading guilty to the charges against her. Despite expressing love for the children, she was condemned by the judge for her role in terrorizing them.
The prosecution emphasized the lack of remorse shown by Hildebrandt, while Franke’s husband, Kevin Franke, who filed for divorce, issued a statement urging the court to impose consecutive sentences. He emphasized the need for the children to receive rehabilitation and return to a normal life.
Under the plea agreement, Franke admitted to subjecting her son to various forms of physical and emotional abuse, including forced labor, deprivation of food and water, and isolation. Her daughter was also subjected to similar abuse, with both children being manipulated into believing they were evil and needed punishment to repent.
The Franke family’s online presence, including their YouTube channel showcasing parenting decisions and disciplinary actions, came under scrutiny. The channel, which had been active for seven years, ended amid the revelations of the abuse.
Overall, the case has sparked outrage and highlighted the importance of protecting children from abuse and exploitation, both online and offline.
