Jodie Hildebrandt, a family therapist, was thought to be a source of support for Ruby Franke’s children but instead played a role in the abuse they endured. Franke, a popular family vlogger, met Hildebrandt through their shared Mormon community, leading to a close friendship. Hildebrandt, known for her coaching business and influence in the Mormon church, became deeply involved in Franke’s life, ultimately enabling the abuse of Franke’s two youngest children.
The shocking truth of Hildebrandt’s complicity in the abuse came to light in the Netflix documentary “Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story.” Franke’s children were rescued after her 12-year-old son sought help from a neighbor, revealing signs of physical harm and neglect. Subsequent investigations uncovered the distressing conditions inside Hildebrandt’s Utah mansion, where one of Franke’s daughters was found in a severely malnourished state.
Franke’s online presence, showcasing her family life with her children and husband on the YouTube channel 8 Passengers, drew attention for her controversial parenting methods. Concerns escalated when child protective services intervened following reports of punitive actions towards her children. The situation worsened as Franke subjected her two youngest children to extreme physical and emotional abuse, with Hildebrandt’s involvement magnifying the severity of the situation.
The abuse inflicted on Franke’s children included harsh punishments, deprivation of food and water, and degrading treatment. Franke’s older children, Shari and Chad, distanced themselves from the family, with Shari eventually sharing her experiences in a memoir. Following Franke’s arrest, her minor children were placed in protective custody, and her former husband gained full custody after their divorce was finalized.
Both Franke and Hildebrandt were convicted and sentenced to prison terms for their roles in the abuse. Franke expressed remorse in court, acknowledging the distorted reality she had embraced and the harm inflicted on her children. Meanwhile, her children have taken steps towards healing and moving forward, with Shari publishing a book and Chad starting a new chapter in his life.
The identities of Franke’s children remain protected, shielding them from further exposure to the traumatic events they endured.