8 Passengers Fallout: Divorce Finalized as Ruby Franke Serves Prison Time

8 Passengers Fallout: Divorce Finalized as Ruby Franke Serves Prison Time

8 Passengers Fallout: Divorce Finalized as Ruby Franke Serves Prison Time

The story of Ruby Franke officially closed a major chapter this week as a Utah judge signed off on her divorce from Kevin Franke—marking the legal end to a marriage that once played out in front of millions on YouTube, before unraveling in one of the most disturbing child abuse cases the state has seen in years.

It’s now on paper: the marriage that began in 2000, spanned six children, and was broadcast through a curated lens on the “8 Passengers” channel, is over. But the real story isn’t the divorce. It’s the fact that Kevin Franke is now the sole legal guardian of their four remaining minor children—kids who were, until recently, trapped in an abusive nightmare behind the closed doors of a so-called parenting enterprise.

Let’s rewind to how we got here. In August 2023, the illusion broke. One of the youngest Franke children—emaciated, injured, and desperate—escaped out of a window from the home of Jodi Hildebrandt in Ivins, Utah. That home wasn’t a safehouse. It was a crime scene. The boy went to a neighbor’s house asking for food and water, and what they saw led them to call police immediately. Authorities later found his sister in similar condition.

The two women at the center—Ruby Franke and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt—were arrested and eventually admitted to four counts each of aggravated child abuse, a second-degree felony. According to Washington County Attorney Eric Clarke, the kids had been kept in conditions he described as “concentration camp-like.” We're talking about extreme malnutrition, physical injuries, emotional torment—the works.

Ruby Franke is now serving at least four years in Utah State Prison, with four consecutive sentences of one to fifteen years each. She’s admitted to a range of abuses, including physically torturing her son, dunking his head underwater, forcing him into strenuous physical tasks, and making both children stand in direct sunlight for long periods without food or water. This wasn’t “tough love.” It was cruelty, systemized and delivered under the pretense of discipline.

Meanwhile, the divorce paperwork went through the usual formalities. Filed under “irreconcilable differences”—which feels like calling a wildfire a small campfire. Kevin Franke submitted the signed stipulation in early March, and by March 20th, Judge Roger Griffin finalized the divorce decree.

Under the agreement, Kevin walks away with full custody, their Springville home, and a 2.8-acre property in Scofield. Ruby gets to keep $85,000 she withdrew before they split, but the rest of the couple’s joint financial accounts go to Kevin, with the exception of an investment account in her name.

Kevin also agreed not to pursue child support from Ruby, effectively considering anything owed already paid. It’s a move that might say more about his priorities—focused on healing the kids rather than fighting over dollars. Neither side asked for alimony. Apparently, they both have what they need to move on—at least financially.

What’s more, despite everything, Ruby Franke has chosen to keep the last name “Franke.” Whether that’s a legal convenience or something deeper is anyone’s guess, but it’s a curious choice given the devastation tied to that name now.

Both Ruby and Jodi Hildebrandt accepted plea deals that cut their total charges from six to four. But make no mistake—the weight of what they admitted to remains enormous. They each face up to 60 years behind bars, though with Utah's system, they’ll be eligible for parole after four.

At her sentencing, Ruby addressed her children, thanking the police for “saving them”—and, she said, saving her. She claimed that being handcuffed was the beginning of her freedom, describing herself as so twisted by manipulation that she believed “dark was light and right was wrong.” It’s a haunting statement, especially when you consider the cost it came with.

In the end, the legal lines are drawn. Kevin Franke has custody. Ruby Franke has convictions. And six children are now trying to rebuild a childhood that was shattered under the watchful eye of a camera and the hidden weight of abuse.

#8PassengersCase #RubyFranke #ChildAbuseSentencing #FrankeDivorceFinalized

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What ELSE Did Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Do To Their Children That We DIDN'T Hear About?

What ELSE Did Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Do To Their Children That We DIDN'T Hear About?

Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt finally sentenced – but was it enough? After shocking the world with their horrific child abuse, Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt have been handed prison sentences of up to 60 years each.  But is this justice for their crimes? On this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski brings in retired FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer to dissect the sentencing and the lingering questions the case raises. “I was happy to see the 60-year exposure...both of these were sentenced to the same sentence. Do you think that was fair?” Brueski probes. Coffindaffer raises a crucial point:  as the children's mother, did Ruby deserve even harsher punishment than her co-conspirator, Jody?  The discussion explores the chilling dynamic between abuser and abused, questioning both women's roles in the horrific crimes. The hosts analyze the apologies made in court.  Was Ruby truly remorseful when she said, "I am committed to unlearning my toxic behavior"?  Can such monstrous behavior ever truly be unlearned, or are they both capable of repeating these horrors? "She’s capable of this and much more... I think he should be held responsible to a degree as well," Coffindaffer remarks regarding Kevin, Ruby's husband. Might he also be culpable? The episode delves into chilling details from the Eight Passengers videos and police interactions, highlighting the pattern of abuse that likely escalated behind closed doors. Were Ruby and Jody stopped only because they got caught?  Would they still be abusing these children if not for the intervention? Join this haunting discussion on Hidden Killers and grapple with the uncomfortable questions this disturbing case raises.   Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

27 Feb 20247min

How Long Will Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Serve In Prison, Eric Faddis Weighs In?

How Long Will Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Serve In Prison, Eric Faddis Weighs In?

This episode of Hidden Killers dives into the sentencing of Mormon mommy bloggers Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt, who were convicted of child abuse. Host Tony Brueski is joined by former Felony Prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis to dissect the details of the case and the sentencing process. Key points discussed: Sentencing: Both Frankie and Hildebrandt received 4 consecutive 15-year sentences, with the possibility of parole after serving 1 year per sentence. Faddis explains how the final sentence length will be determined by the prison system based on factors like behavior and good time credits. Plea Deal: The defendants opted for a plea deal to avoid a trial and potentially spare the victims further trauma. Faddis analyzes the strategic move and its potential benefits in terms of reduced sentencing. Accountability: While both received the same sentence, the discussion delves into whether Frankie, as the alleged ringleader, deserved harsher punishment. Rehabilitation: Faddis expresses optimism for rehabilitation but questions the depth of change possible after such extreme behavior. Protecting Children: The episode concludes with the hope that Frankie and Hildebrandt will be kept away from children for an extended period. Overall, this episode offers a nuanced look at the complexities of the case, the legal aspects of sentencing, and the ongoing challenges of child abuse.   Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

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COURT - BREAKING NEWS - The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke -WEEK IN REVIEW

COURT - BREAKING NEWS - The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke -WEEK IN REVIEW

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COURT - Breaking News - The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt  -WEEK IN REVIEW

COURT - Breaking News - The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt -WEEK IN REVIEW

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24 Feb 202412min

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Ruby Franke

Could a mother and her mentor, once trusted with the care and guidance of children, be responsible for their abuse? This troubling question has been answered in the case of Ruby Franke, a parenting YouTuber, and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt. Both women have been sentenced to four consecutive prison terms each, following guilty pleas to child abuse charges. The case came to light after one of Franke's children fled Hildebrandt's residence in August, seeking help from a neighbor. Franke, known for her "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, and Hildebrandt, who ran ConneXions Classroom, faced six counts of aggravated child abuse, with each count carrying a possible prison term of one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000. During sentencing, state prosecutor Eric Clarke likened the environment Franke's children endured to a "concentration camp-like setting," describing Franke's actions as "horrible acts of child abuse." Clarke also labeled Hildebrandt a "significant threat" to the community. In court, Franke acknowledged her guilt and expressed gratitude to the officials who rescued her children. She agreed to testify against Hildebrandt as part of her plea deal. Hildebrandt's plea agreement revealed her awareness and participation in the abuse. Disturbingly, it included forcing Franke's daughter to repeatedly jump into a cactus and detailed other heinous acts of torture. Franke's family, including her husband Kevin Franke, who has filed for divorce, has been left to grapple with the aftermath. Kevin's lawyer stated his focus on keeping the children together and under his care. In a recent court appearance, Ruby Franke apologized to her former husband, calling the end of their marriage a "tragedy." Statements from Franke's family, including her brother Beau Griffiths, suggest Hildebrandt's manipulative influence over Franke. Griffiths, himself a former participant in Hildebrandt's program, accused Hildebrandt of brainwashing his sister. The sentencing marks the end of a harrowing chapter for the Franke family and raises serious questions about the influence and responsibility of those in positions of trust. As Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt face the consequences of their actions, one wonders: How did such a trusted figure in parenting guidance fall so far from grace?   Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

20 Feb 202418min

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt

BREAKING NEWS: The Sentencing Of Jodi Hildebrandt

Could a mother and her mentor, once trusted with the care and guidance of children, be responsible for their abuse? This troubling question has been answered in the case of Ruby Franke, a parenting YouTuber, and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt. Both women have been sentenced to four consecutive prison terms each, following guilty pleas to child abuse charges. The case came to light after one of Franke's children fled Hildebrandt's residence in August, seeking help from a neighbor. Franke, known for her "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, and Hildebrandt, who ran ConneXions Classroom, faced six counts of aggravated child abuse, with each count carrying a possible prison term of one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000. During sentencing, state prosecutor Eric Clarke likened the environment Franke's children endured to a "concentration camp-like setting," describing Franke's actions as "horrible acts of child abuse." Clarke also labeled Hildebrandt a "significant threat" to the community. In court, Franke acknowledged her guilt and expressed gratitude to the officials who rescued her children. She agreed to testify against Hildebrandt as part of her plea deal. Hildebrandt's plea agreement revealed her awareness and participation in the abuse. Disturbingly, it included forcing Franke's daughter to repeatedly jump into a cactus and detailed other heinous acts of torture. Franke's family, including her husband Kevin Franke, who has filed for divorce, has been left to grapple with the aftermath. Kevin's lawyer stated his focus on keeping the children together and under his care. In a recent court appearance, Ruby Franke apologized to her former husband, calling the end of their marriage a "tragedy." Statements from Franke's family, including her brother Beau Griffiths, suggest Hildebrandt's manipulative influence over Franke. Griffiths, himself a former participant in Hildebrandt's program, accused Hildebrandt of brainwashing his sister. The sentencing marks the end of a harrowing chapter for the Franke family and raises serious questions about the influence and responsibility of those in positions of trust. As Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt face the consequences of their actions, one wonders: How did such a trusted figure in parenting guidance fall so far from grace?   Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

20 Feb 202412min

Will Ruby Franke's Letter Of Blame, Help Or Hurt Her At Sentencing? -WEEK IN REVIEW

Will Ruby Franke's Letter Of Blame, Help Or Hurt Her At Sentencing? -WEEK IN REVIEW

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

7 Jan 202412min

Defense Attorney Bob Motta Breaks Down The Torture That Ruby Franke Inflicted On Her Children-WEEK IN REVIEW

Defense Attorney Bob Motta Breaks Down The Torture That Ruby Franke Inflicted On Her Children-WEEK IN REVIEW

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.       This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.       Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.  Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

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