YouTube vlogger Ruby Franke and her associate, Jodi Hildebrandt, have been sentenced to prison for child abuse charges. Franke, known for her online presence, received a sentence of four consecutive terms, each ranging from one to 15 years, after pleading guilty to aggravated child abuse involving two of her children. The final duration of Franke’s imprisonment will be determined by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole.
Both Franke and Hildebrandt, the founder of Connexions Classroom, admitted guilt to four counts of child abuse in December at the Washington County 5th District Court in Utah. Their sentencing followed their admission of causing or permitting another adult to inflict severe physical harm on Franke’s children between May and August 2023.
In a court statement, Franke expressed remorse for her actions, attributing them to following misguided counsel that led her into a “dark delusion.” She emphasized her desire to demonstrate remorse and take full responsibility for her actions, stating her preference for serving a prison sentence to account for her choices.
The case came to light after Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped from Hildebrandt’s residence, where he had been staying, and sought help from a neighbor, claiming he had been abused. The plea agreement detailed the physical torture and forced labor the child endured, including being made to work outside in the heat without adequate water or food, leading to severe sunburns and injuries from being bound with handcuffs and ropes.
Hildebrandt, in her court statement, expressed love for the children and a desire for their emotional healing, stating her decision not to go to trial was to spare them the trauma of reliving their experiences.
The case has highlighted issues of religious extremism and the dangers of following harmful guidance. Prosecutors have expressed concerns about the potential for Hildebrandt to influence others if released, emphasizing the need for accountability and change in both defendants’ thinking and actions.
