• Ruby Franke, former host of the 8 Passengers YouTube channel, is facing legal trouble for alleged child abuse.
• Franke and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt were arrested on charges of aggravated child abuse after police discovered two malnourished children in their care.
• Four additional minor children were taken into the care of the Department of Child and Family Services, and Ruby’s estranged daughter expressed relief that justice is being served.
Here is what happened:
Ruby Franke, a popular YouTube personality known for her family vlogs on the now-deleted 8 Passengers channel, is currently facing charges of aggravated child abuse. Franke and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested after authorities received reports of a starved child with evident signs of abuse. The child, described as malnourished with open wounds and duct tape on their extremities, was found seeking food and water. Another child in a nearby residence was discovered in a similar condition prompting law enforcement to search the location. Evidence consistent with the markings on the first child was allegedly found at Hildebrandt’s home, where both children were staying.
Due to the severity of their conditions, the children were immediately transported to a local hospital. The child’s name and age were not disclosed. Authorities also located four more minor children who were subsequently placed under the care of the Department of Child and Family Services. Ruby and Jodi’s representatives have not yet commented on the situation, and it remains unclear if they have legal representation. The popular influencer’s estranged daughter, Shari Franke, took to Instagram to express relief that justice was being served and urged privacy and prayers. She also requested any concerning content related to the 8 Passengers channel to be shared with her.
Ruby Franke’s parenting methods had previously drawn criticism from viewers. One video that circulated on social media showed her refusing to provide lunch for her 6-year-old daughter after she forgot to bring food to school. In the video, Ruby justified her decision, stating that her daughter should learn from the natural consequence of hunger. The incident raised concerns among viewers, which were further heightened following the recent child abuse charges.
As the investigation continues and the legal process unfolds, the case has shed light on the growing obsession with true crime stories. The popularity of true crime documentaries and the public’s fascination with these narratives is undeniable. However, it is crucial to remember the real-life victims and the significance of addressing the underlying issues, such as child abuse, that these stories often highlight. This case serves as a reminder that the truth behind these captivating narratives is often filled with tragedy and suffering, reinforcing the importance of protecting and advocating for the welfare of vulnerable individuals.
