Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke, Modern Day Mormon Monsters

How can an individual maintain such a hold over others that even basic human rights are denied?
In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski conversed with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott about the troubling revelations surrounding Jodi Hildebrandt's interactions with Ruby Franke, and the chilling accounts of her past behaviors. The information brought forward, including startling admissions from Jodi’s niece, Jesse Hildebrandt, gives an alarming perspective on the extent of Jodi's manipulation.

"The lady is crazy and abusive and inappropriate," Shavaun remarked, addressing the serious accusations against Jodi. It was Jesse who recounted her traumatic time under Jodi's care, detailing how she was forced to sleep outside in the snow, duct-taped, isolated, and made to write out her 'sins.' This wasn't a singular incident confined to Ruby Franke's children. Jesse’s account indicates a pattern that Jodi had maintained for years.

Concerns arise when one wonders how such actions went unchecked. The issue isn't merely about an individual’s wrongdoing but the system that allowed it. "It makes one wonder about the licensing board in the state of Utah," Shavaun notes, questioning how Jodi was allowed to run a counseling agency despite her history. The deeper connection between Jodi's counseling services and the Mormon faith's endorsement may offer some insight.

"Having the affirmation of the Mormon faith gave her power," Shavaun suggests. This backing, it seems, provided a veil that prevented closer scrutiny of her actions. Notably, even when the Church ceased its official endorsement of Jodi, individual recommendations persisted, shielding her from accountability.

Another figure entangled in this web is Kevin Franke, Ruby's husband. His seemingly passive role raises eyebrows. "It's like these women were running the show and dictating everything to him," Brueski observes. Despite being an educated professional, Kevin’s questionable actions towards his children, especially during a contentious interaction over the retrieval of personal belongings, casts him in a perplexing light. His lawyer's emphasis on his alleged 'victimhood' contrasts sharply with his actions.

The twisted dynamics between Ruby, Jodi, and Kevin brings forward another daunting aspect of this narrative: the ease with which individuals can be manipulated and controlled, especially by someone exhibiting cult-like dominance. Ruby, despite her age and apparent agency, might herself have fallen prey to Jodi's influence. Shavaun parallels this case to the notorious Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow scenario, explaining, "When you have 2 people who are not well, and you put them together, then you get a monster."

This multi-layered tale of control, manipulation, and deranged behavior serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities humans possess, even when they seem most secure. The dangers aren't always from the outside. Sometimes, the most significant threats reside in the trust we place in those closest to us, and the institutions we hold dear.

In a world where trust is paramount, how do we discern genuine guidance from manipulative control?
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