The idyllic life portrayed on the “8 Passengers” YouTube channel took a dark turn in the summer of 2023, when a chilling 911 call exposed the horrifying truth behind the seemingly perfect family. This is the story of Ruby Franke, a once-popular mommy vlogger, and her descent into child abuse.
The Rise of 8 Passengers
Ruby Franke, a mother of six, captivated millions with her YouTube channel, “8 Passengers,” offering a glimpse into her family’s life. The channel documented the everyday adventures of Ruby, her husband Kevin, and their six children.
Ruby Franke posing with her husband and six children
Initially, the channel focused on relatable parenting content, resonating with parents seeking advice and entertainment. However, as the channel gained popularity, viewers began noticing disturbing patterns in Ruby’s parenting style.
The Dark Turn and Public Backlash
What started as seemingly harmless parenting advice morphed into what many viewers perceived as cruel and manipulative behavior. Ruby’s disciplinary tactics, often involving public humiliation and deprivation, sparked outrage and concern.
Ruby Franke's son doing push ups
Instances like denying her daughter lunch for not packing it and removing her son’s bedroom for seven months ignited a firestorm of criticism and eventually led to petitions calling for investigations into potential child abuse.
The Jodi Hildebrandt Influence
As criticism mounted, Ruby Franke disappeared from “8 Passengers” and resurfaced alongside Jodi Hildebrandt, a licensed clinical mental health counselor, in a new venture called “Connections.” This life coaching program, founded by Hildebrandt, became a breeding ground for further controversy.
Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt at a Connections event
Hildebrandt, already facing scrutiny for past ethical violations, advocated for strict parenting techniques that raised red flags among many. Her influence on Ruby Franke became increasingly apparent, shaping the latter’s approach to discipline and family dynamics.
The Chilling 911 Call and Arrest
The situation reached a breaking point in August 2023 when Ruby Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped from Hildebrandt’s home, where he and his younger sister were staying. Malnourished and bearing signs of physical abuse, he sought help from a neighbor, who made the harrowing 911 call that exposed the horrifying reality.
Both Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt were arrested and charged with six counts of aggravated child abuse. The arrest sent shockwaves through social media and beyond, raising questions about the dangers of unchecked authority and the potential for abuse within seemingly normal families.
The Guilty Plea and Disturbing Revelations
In a shocking turn of events, Ruby Franke pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse in December 2023. As part of her plea deal, she agreed to testify against Jodi Hildebrandt.
Ruby Franke in court
The plea agreement unveiled the horrifying extent of the abuse endured by Ruby Franke’s children, including physical beatings, starvation, and prolonged isolation. The details painted a grim picture of systematic torture and manipulation, leaving the public stunned and horrified.
Sentencing and the Aftermath
Both Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt were sentenced to serve time in prison. The case sparked a larger conversation about the dark side of online fame, the dangers of unchecked authority figures, and the importance of prioritizing children’s well-being.
Kevin Franke, Ruby’s husband, filed for divorce and is fighting to regain custody of his children. The children are undergoing extensive therapy to heal from the trauma inflicted upon them. This chilling case serves as a stark reminder to remain vigilant, trust your instincts, and always prioritize the safety and well-being of children.
