Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt have been handed prison sentences of up to 30 years each in a child abuse case, following guilty pleas. The charges stemmed from an incident in August when one of Franke’s children escaped Hildebrandt’s residence seeking help from a neighbor. The prosecutor stated that this is the most severe penalty available under Utah law.
Franke faces four consecutive prison terms, each ranging from one to 15 years, with the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole determining the actual prison time. She has 30 days to appeal the decision. Hildebrandt received a similar sentence, and like Franke, her prison term will be decided by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole.
Initially charged with six counts of aggravated child abuse, a second-degree felony, Franke and Hildebrandt were confronted with potential penalties of one to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000 for each count.
During the sentencing recommendation, the state prosecutor likened the environment faced by Franke’s children to a “concentration camp-like setting” and accused Franke of committing “horrible acts of child abuse.” Hildebrandt was described as a “significant threat” to the community.
Both women addressed the court before sentencing, with Hildebrandt expressing her willingness to accept an appropriate amount of time served. Franke admitted to inflicting injuries on her children, attributing her actions to a belief that the world is an evil place. She thanked public safety officials for rescuing her children, calling them “angels.”
In December, Franke pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse, acknowledging the torture of her children. The plea agreement detailed instances of abuse, including binding her son and making her daughter perform manual labor without shoes or water. Hildebrandt tied up Franke’s son and used home remedies on his wounds. As part of her plea deal, Franke agreed to serve a prison term and testify against Hildebrandt.
Hildebrandt also pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse, admitting to either torturing the children or being aware of the abuse. The crimes were driven by religious extremism, with the defendants believing the abuse was necessary for repentance and to cast out evil spirits.
Before the criminal charges, Franke faced criticism on YouTube for harsh punishments towards her children. The “8 Passengers” YouTube channel, which started in 2015, ended after seven years. Franke’s husband, Kevin Franke, has filed for divorce, expressing concerns about the well-being of their children.