Kevin Franke, husband of controversial parenting influencer Ruby Franke, was allegedly unaware of the trouble his children were facing. Franke’s attorney, Randy S. Kester, asserts that his client was following the advice of a supposed mental health expert, Jodi Hildebrandt, who instructed him to maintain distance from his family as the path to saving them. Unbeknownst to Kevin, this advice was leading to a situation of alleged abuse.
Hildebrandt, who was counseling Kevin during their separation, reportedly painted a picture of bliss and harmony within the family, concealing the alleged abuse occurring under her own roof. Furthermore, she allegedly advised Kevin against contacting his children, a directive he followed under the assumption of professional guidance.
According to Kester, Kevin participated in men’s groups facilitated by Hildebrandt, where he was subjected to belittlement and urged to repent for his perceived flaws. This alleged manipulation extended to urging separation from his family to avoid “infecting” them with his problems. Kester highlights that Kevin was not the only individual subjected to this treatment within these groups, suggesting a pattern of manipulation.
These sessions, often conducted via Zoom, led Kevin to believe his relationship was on the mend, with reconciliation as the ultimate goal. He remained unaware of the alleged abuse and was being prepared for a reunion with his family, while simultaneously being manipulated into staying away.
Both Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt were scheduled to appear in court for a status hearing concerning bail. However, the hearing was postponed due to new and significant information received from law enforcement, the specifics of which remain undisclosed.
Kester further reveals that Kevin, while willing to share his side of the story, is choosing to remain silent at present to avoid jeopardizing the legal proceedings and to prioritize the healing of his family. He remains committed to reuniting with his children and rebuilding their lives.
Meanwhile, Kevin is embroiled in a custody battle for his children in juvenile court. Kester anticipates these hearings might soon be closed to the public to safeguard the children’s privacy, particularly in light of sensitive information revealed during a previous hearing, where Ruby Franke made disturbing allegations of inappropriate behavior by one of her children.
Kester firmly believes that the entire Franke family was subjected to manipulation and “brainwashing” by Jodi Hildebrandt. He points to the advice given to Kevin, urging separation under the guise of familial repair, as a prime example of this manipulation. He argues that a competent mental health professional would not advocate for such an approach.
Kester emphasizes that Kevin, desperate to salvage his family, was acting on the advice of someone he believed to be an expert. He posits that Hildebrandt’s influence played a significant role in the unraveling of the Franke family, highlighting the devastating consequences of her alleged actions.
While acknowledging the sensitive nature of the situation, Kester hints at further revelations to come, describing the unfolding narrative as a multifaceted and tragic event with far-reaching implications for the Franke family. He expresses confidence in Kevin’s strength and commitment to guiding his children through this traumatic experience.
