• Ruby Franke and business partner Jodi Hildebrandt have been charged with six counts of felony child abuse.
• Ruby’s husband, Kevin Franke, claims they have been living apart for 13 months and denies any allegations of physical abuse on his part.
• The couple’s children have been taken into the care of Utah’s Division of Child and Family Services.
Here is what happened:
Ruby Franke, who was charged with six felony counts of child abuse, is facing scrutiny and her husband, Kevin Franke, is speaking out about the allegations. According to Kevin’s lawyer, Randy Kester, the couple has been living apart for 13 months, and Kevin vehemently denies any physical abuse towards their children or anyone else. He is described as a gentle person who is focused on what is best for their kids and wants to protect them.
The 41-year-old influencer and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested after Ruby’s 12-year-old son was discovered by law enforcement climbing out of a window at Jodi’s home. The child was emaciated, with open wounds and duct tape on his wrists and ankles. He had gone to a neighbor’s house, seeking food and water. Ruby’s 10-year-old daughter was also found in a malnourished state at Jodi’s home. Both children were taken to a local hospital for treatment, while Ruby’s other two minor children still living at home were placed in the care of Utah’s Division of Child and Family Services.
In light of the arrest, Ruby’s sisters Ellie Mecham, Bonnie Hoellein, and Julie Deru released a joint statement in support of her arrest. They explained that they had remained quiet about Ruby for the sake of her children, but behind the scenes, they had worked to ensure their safety. Moving forward, they will address the situation but will not comment further on it.
The allegations have had a significant impact on Kevin, who is described as “distraught” over how they are affecting his family. He is focused on being there for his children and getting them back under his care. Unfortunately, attempts to reach Ruby and Jodi for comment have been unsuccessful so far.
