5 Chilling Facts About Ruby Franke's Downfall: From YouTube Momfluencer To Convicted Child Abuser

The dramatic fall of Ruby Franke, the former YouTube sensation behind the "8 Passengers" channel, remains one of the most shocking stories in the digital age. As of late 2024 and early 2025, the case is no longer about the arrest, but the grim reality of her prison sentence and the lasting impact on her family. This article provides the most current and essential details, moving beyond the initial headlines to explore the disturbing facts revealed in court and the consequences of her actions.

The Utah-based "momfluencer" who once dispensed strict parenting advice to millions is now a convicted felon serving a lengthy prison term, a stark conclusion to a case rooted in severe child abuse and religious extremism. The full picture, including the disturbing details of her plea agreement and the fate of her six children, is a cautionary tale about the dark side of online celebrity.

Complete Biography and Profile of Ruby Franke

Ruby Franke rose to prominence as the matriarch of the Franke family, chronicling the lives of her husband and six children on the popular YouTube channel "8 Passengers." The channel, which launched in 2015, amassed over 2.5 million subscribers before its eventual demise. Her public image as a strict, but loving, mother was shattered by her 2023 arrest and subsequent conviction.

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• Full Name: Ruby Franke (née Ruby Spurlock)
• Date of Birth: January 18, 1982 (Age 42 as of late 2024)
• Former Spouse: Kevin Franke (separated/estranged at the time of arrest)
• Children (6): Shari Franke, Chad Franke, Abby Franke, Julie Franke, Russell Franke, and Eve Franke.
• Former Occupation: YouTube Vlogger, Content Creator, "Momfluencer"
• Former YouTube Channel: 8 Passengers (Deleted)
• Business Partner/Co-Defendant: Jodi Hildebrandt
• Criminal Conviction: Four counts of Second-Degree Aggravated Child Abuse (Felony)
• Sentence Date: February 20, 2024

The Shocking Details of the Aggravated Child Abuse Case

The investigation into Ruby Franke's home life began in August 2023 after a harrowing escape. Her 12-year-old son, Russell, climbed out of a window at the home of her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, and ran to a neighbor's house for help. The boy was severely emaciated and had open wounds from being tied up with rope.

This incident immediately triggered an investigation by the Washington County Sheriff's Office. Authorities quickly found Franke's 10-year-old daughter, Eve, in a similar malnourished state at the same residence. Both children were taken to the hospital for treatment due to their severe condition, which included malnourishment and deep lacerations.

The charges filed against Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt were six counts of felony aggravated child abuse. The shocking details revealed the extent of the abuse, which included starvation, physical injury, and emotional torture over an extended period.

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The Disturbing Plea Agreement and Admission of Guilt

In a major development, Ruby Franke pleaded guilty in December 2023 to four counts of second-degree aggravated child abuse as part of a plea deal with prosecutors. Her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, also pleaded guilty to the same four counts.

Franke's plea agreement contained chilling admissions that contradicted her public image as a dedicated mother. She admitted to the following acts of abuse against her two youngest children:

• Forcing them to perform manual labor outdoors in the extreme heat without shoes or water.
• Withholding food, water, and basic medical care for weeks.
• Using rope to tie the children's limbs.
• Telling the children that the abuse was necessary to "teach them" and that they were evil or possessed.

Franke claimed that she was led to believe by Hildebrandt that the abuse was necessary to protect the children from "evil" and "demons," a reflection of the religious extremism that had consumed her life since partnering with Hildebrandt's "ConneXions" life coaching service.

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The Prison Sentence and Current Life Behind Bars

On February 20, 2024, Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt were both sentenced in a Utah courtroom. The judge handed down a severe sentence, reflecting the gravity of the crimes committed.

Franke was sentenced to four consecutive terms of one to 15 years in prison, meaning her total sentence could range from four to 60 years. However, under Utah law, the maximum time served for consecutive indeterminate sentences is typically capped at 30 years. Her earliest possible release date will depend on the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole.

During the sentencing hearing, Franke expressed remorse, stating that she was "humbled and willing to serve a prison sentence." She also apologized to her children, acknowledging the profound trauma she inflicted.

Franke is currently incarcerated in a Utah correctional facility. Her life has completely transformed from that of a glamorous "momfluencer" to an inmate serving a long sentence for heinous crimes. The case has also led to a new wave of scrutiny regarding the ethics of family vlogging and the potential for abuse hidden behind a seemingly perfect online facade.

The Fate of the Franke Children and Family Updates

The six Franke children—Shari, Chad, Abby, Julie, Russell, and Eve—are now in a custody situation managed by the state's Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS). The oldest daughter, Shari Franke, who had previously distanced herself from her mother's actions and the "ConneXions" philosophy, has been vocal in her support for her younger siblings and the need for accountability.

Kevin Franke, Ruby's estranged husband, has been working to regain custody of his children following his separation from Ruby. The children's well-being and recovery from the trauma they endured are the primary focus of the ongoing legal and social services process.

Updates from the children, particularly from the older ones like Chad Franke, occasionally surface, indicating a slow, difficult path toward healing and recovery in the wake of their mother's conviction. The family's story is a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can exist behind the curated perfection of social media.