Ruby Franke, formerly known for her “8 Passengers” YouTube channel, has been sentenced to a period of up to 60 years in prison on charges of aggravated child abuse on Tuesday.
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In court, Franke expressed her readiness to accept her prison term, acknowledging her actions and stating her commitment to rectify her harmful behaviors. “I am humbled and willing to serve a prison sentence for as long as I need,” she conveyed to the judge, expressing remorse for misrepresenting religious teachings. According to TOO FAB, the court handed down the maximum possible sentence.
Jodi Hildebrandt, who was associated with Franke, received an identical sentence after being criticized by the judge for her role in the children’s mistreatment. Hildebrandt defended her actions in court, claiming her affection for the children and her decision to plead guilty to spare them the ordeal of a trial.
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Both Franke and Hildebrandt were apprehended in August of the previous year following allegations of abuse directed at Franke’s children. Their ultimate incarceration duration is to be determined by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole following their guilty pleas to four counts of child abuse in December.
In a court statement before her sentencing, Franke reflected on the past four years, describing her adherence to misguided advice that led her down a path of delusion and isolation from critical voices. She detailed a skewed perception of the world, fueled by conspiracy and distrust, and clarified her relationship with Hildebrandt, who served as a counselor to her son and later as a mentor to Franke herself.
“For the past four years, I’ve chosen to follow counsel and guidance that has led me into a dark delusion. My distorted version of reality went largely unchecked as I would isolate from anyone who challenged me. I was led to believe that this world was an evil place filled with cops who control, hospitals that injure, government agencies that brainwash, church leaders who lie and lust, husbands who refuse to protect and children who need abuse,”Â
The case gained significant attention following an incident where Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped from Hildebrandt’s residence, seeking help from neighbors. He was found with serious injuries and in need of immediate medical attention. This event led to the discovery of Franke’s 10-year-old daughter in a similar state and the arrest of Franke and Hildebrandt on August 30. Ultimately, four of Franke’s children were placed under protective custody.
This sentencing marks a significant conclusion to the distressing saga involving the former influencers, highlighting the severe consequences of their actions.