Malevolent Mormon Mommys | The Case Against Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt

Can the divide between organized religion and personal spirituality give rise to cases of child abuse, and how does accountability fit in?
In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast hosted by Tony Brueski, a riveting conversation with Clinical and Forensic Psychologist & Licensed Private Investigator Joni Johnston sheds light on a case that has gripped many - the troubling tale of Ruby Franke and Jody Hildebrandt, known as the Mormon mommy bloggers. These women have found themselves submerged in allegations of child abuse, a narrative that not only places their lives under scrutiny but also poses questions about the role of organized religion in these actions.
To provide some context, Ruby Franke and her husband, Kevin, according to their attorney, have been separated for roughly 13 months, with Ruby living with Jody Hildebrandt. During this period, one of their children allegedly "escaped" their residence and sought refuge in a neighbor's house. Kevin, as per his lawyer, emphasizes his commitment to "doing what's best for his kids" and aims to rebuild familial bridges.
Brueski probed Johnston on Kevin's awareness of the events transpiring in the Franke household, to which she responded, "It's hard to imagine that he didn't know some of what was going on for sure... Based on the information I have, how much of an active participant he was, but I would be very surprised if he did not know some of what was going on." Johnston speculated that things might have escalated after their separation, but some of their older children have indicated that such behavior has been ongoing for years.
One pressing theme emerged from the dialogue: the link between organized religion, in this case, the Mormon faith, and instances of abuse. Several recent cases involving individuals of the Mormon faith exhibited extreme parental tactics, leading to the question of how much organized religion plays a role in such actions. Johnston observed, "It isn't necessarily the religion's fault if people then distort those religious beliefs or twist them for their own benefit."
This raises an intriguing angle about the juxtaposition between organized religion and personal spirituality. Johnston pointed out how some might misuse religion as a shield, hindering them from seeking professional mental health care because it could be perceived as a "weakness of faith."
The conversation took a deeper turn when Brueski highlighted a concern - the Mormon Church's endorsement of Jody Hildebrandt as a counselor. This endorsement, coupled with the ongoing situation, evoked the question: "Is this a reflection of a greater problem within that church?"
Johnston's perspective on the matter brings up another pivotal point – the uneasy relationship between religion and mental health. She stressed the need for a clear boundary between one's religious beliefs and mental health care, especially when dealing with sensitive cases. "One of the most difficult things about this case for me is that Jody Hildebrand is a mental health professional," said Johnston, adding how unsettling it is to think that a mental health professional could endorse abusive tactics.
Another alarming revelation from the discussion was the multiple alerts Child Protective Services received from concerned neighbors about the Franke children's welfare. Still, it took an extreme situation for proper action to be taken. Johnston shared her experience working with abused kids, highlighting the systemic problems within child welfare agencies, from understaffing to the dilemma of prioritizing family unity over child safety. Brueski and Johnston both championed the need for better resources and systems to protect children genuinely.
In an era where we advocate for children's safety and mental well-being, stories like these force society to reckon with its values and beliefs. The case of Ruby Franke and Jody Hildebrandt presents more than just a story of alleged abuse; it unravels complex webs of religion, societal norms, and accountability.
In the face of these revelations, one is left to ponder: Where do personal beliefs end and the need for professional intervention begin?
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Is the line between cult behavior and entrepreneurial drive blurred in the recent spotlight on Jodi Hildebrandt's controversial group? Recent discussions on the podcast "Hidden Killers" delved deep into the actions and influence of Jodi Hildebrandt and her associate, Ruby Franke.
During the conversation, Tony Brueski and criminal defense lawyer Lori Hellis broke down the unsettling nuances that surround the activities of Hildebrandt and Franke. “Anytime you have an organization that is formed around a central figure...it certainly has cult overtones,” Hellis said. In Hildebrandt's case, her belief system and the proclamation that those who didn't adhere would face severe repercussions gave rise to serious concern. The dynamic between Hildebrandt and Franke became even murkier with the revelation of Franke's 2 million followers on YouTube and the subsequent potential monetary advantages.
Drawing parallels with the Lori Vallow Daybell case, Brueski questioned the motivations of such figures. “Was it money? Was it control?” he asked. The underlying intentions might be obscured, but a clear link to financial gain was established when it was revealed that Franke secured $87,000 in PPP loans for her YouTube channel. This revelation adds another layer to the complex dynamics at play.
A notable element in this discussion is the adoption of the “love and logic” parenting approach from the 1990s by Hildebrandt and Franke. Hellis mentioned, “I think they do believe that is the way to, to appropriately parent...she's got the answer and people want it and she can get them to pay for it.” However, this approach has taken a dark turn. The extreme methods used by Hildebrandt went far beyond typical strict parenting. Brueski highlighted, "It just seems to go way off the rails. How does someone end up sitting in their home duct-taping their children up and abusing them and going, ‘Yeah, this is strict parenting’?"
The conversation turned even more harrowing with the account of Jodi's niece, Jessie, who spoke of the severe and unimaginable discipline she endured under Hildebrandt's care. Hellis said, “For Ruby Franke's children, she had cut them off from everyone...the first thing the abuser does is isolate their victim.” This isolation is a telltale sign of abusive patterns and manipulation.
The responsibility and knowledge of Ruby Franke's husband became a crucial aspect of the conversation. Hellis gave insights into the possibility of him being more passive in the face of Franke's parenting tactics, implying that while he may not have directly been complicit, his passive stance potentially enabled the continued abuse. There were speculations about him wanting to reunite the family, but how much he knew or intervened remains a grey area.
From this conversation, one thing is evident: the line between cult behavior, delusional beliefs, and a drive for entrepreneurial success has been muddled in the activities of Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke. Their methods, beliefs, and actions pose significant concerns that demand scrutiny.
But as we delve into the motivations and intentions behind such controversial figures, one can't help but wonder: at what point does the drive for success or adherence to belief systems transform into dangerous fanaticism?
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Is it possible that behind the camera lens of some of our favorite family influencers lies a disturbing reality?
Recent shocking revelations surrounding YouTube personalities, Ruby Frank from 8 Passengers and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, have left fans and audiences worldwide grappling with disbelief and betrayal. The arrest of the duo followed a chilling 911 call, in which a 12-year-old boy, identified as one of Ruby's children, appeared at a neighbor's home - emaciated, wounded, and bound with duct tape.
"This one, I don't know if it should shock me or not, but it kind of does considering the following that she had," remarked Tony Brueski, host of the podcast "Hidden Killers", during a recent episode.
Brueski and his guest, Defense Attorney Bob Motta from Defense Diaries, delved deep into this alarming incident, attempting to reconcile how a seemingly strict 'old school' parent who once broadcasted minor parenting faux pas could escalate to such horrifying actions.
Evidence of the alleged abuse came to light when "the kids start coming forward", Motta mentioned. Ruby's YouTube channel had showcased her strict parenting techniques in the past. An incident where her six-year-old was responsible for her lunch and was publicly chastised for forgetting it raised eyebrows. While some viewers perceived it as Ruby teaching her children life lessons, others were quick to criticize her approach.
The lines between stern parenting and outright abuse seem blurred for many, and unfortunately, some influencers might be pushing these boundaries to dangerous extremes. In discussing the difference between teaching children accountability and outright neglect, Motta highlighted, "There are parents that still abide by, you know, spare the rod, spoil the child type of mindset, a long way from like when I was growing up."
However, what remains more confounding is the consistent absence of intervention. Despite allegations and complaints, including some from Ruby's own 20-year-old daughter, Child Protective Services (CPS) failed to act. As Motta emphasized, these children are not toddlers. They have a voice, yet for some reason, it was overlooked, echoing haunting similarities to other cases of children being unheard, like that of Lucy Studi.
Motta, while comparing this situation, said, "Like how scary and frustrating that must be for children who are just not being heard." Adding another layer of complexity, Jodi Hildebrandt's involvement, Ruby's business partner, and the complicity of Ruby's husband, who claims to have been unaware of the ongoing abuse, paints a grim picture of children caught in a web of adult manipulation.
Yet, as this investigation progresses, truth and justice may be on the horizon. With the victims themselves acting as witnesses, Motta reassured listeners, "We do have very much eyewitnesses as to exactly what was going on in that house and for how long and by whom. So if it's a secret, it's not going to stay secret for long."
As followers of family influencers, this case acts as a haunting reminder that all might not be as it appears. For the children involved, the hope is that justice will prevail, and they will finally find peace after years of torment.
As the digital age thrusts parents into the spotlight, where do we draw the line between harmless content and the potential exploitation or even abuse of children?
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In a chilling episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski unravels the disturbing story of prominent YouTube personality Ruby Frank and her business associate Jodi Hildebrandt. As the allegations come to light, questions about modern parenting, the perils of social media validation, and the influence of public opinion take center stage. The revelations leave listeners grappling with the blurred lines between public perception and a grim reality.
Ruby Frank, famed for her YouTube channel "Eight Passengers," and Hildebrandt found themselves embroiled in controversy when a 911 call exposed a harrowing scene: an emaciated 12-year-old boy, covered in wounds and bound with duct tape, desperately seeking refuge at a neighbor’s home. According to the call, the boy had managed to escape from Hildebrandt's residence, where both women were present.
Brueski questions, "How could mothers, especially ones so visibly present in the public eye, allegedly engage in such abusive behavior with their children?" The podcast reveals that while these alleged abuses weren’t explicitly shown on camera, there were veiled jokes hinting at abuse.
Retired FBI Special Agent Robin Dreeke provides a possible answer, suggesting a deep-seated need for external validation. “This is what happens when you fall in love with your own voice,” Dreeke states, highlighting the delicate balance between 'informers' and 'me formers' on social media. For Ruby, who seemed to prioritize showcasing her life on the platform, the balance seemed tilted towards the latter.
Dreeke goes on to dissect the probable causes for such behavior, suggesting that the convergence of personal insecurities, a strict parenting style, and the hunt for validation on public platforms can create a toxic cycle. “When you start normalizing bad behavior, it becomes easier to escalate it,” Dreeke remarks. This escalating cycle might have been exacerbated when Hildebrandt, who might share similar beliefs, became a significant part of Ruby’s life.
The role of Ruby's husband, who occasionally appeared in her videos but has not been charged with any wrongdoing, remains a murky area. Brueski expresses incredulity, questioning whether the father was genuinely oblivious to the situation or perhaps another victim of abuse himself. The podcast touches upon the possibility of trauma bonding, wherein victims form emotional attachments with their abusers.
A pivotal question remains: Why did it take so long for authorities to intervene? Despite previous petitions to Child Protective Services, the situation only came to a head with the recent dramatic escape of the boy. Dreeke alludes to the gradual desensitization of regular viewers who, accustomed to incremental increases in alarming behavior, may not recognize the situation's severity. However, an outsider or a professional might view the same behavior and recognize it as deeply troubling.
The podcast "Hidden Killers" has thrown into sharp relief the complexities surrounding digital age parenting, the allure and danger of online validation, and society's role in perpetuating or preventing such situations. As we reflect on this distressing revelation, we're left to ponder: In a world where our lives are increasingly on display, how can we discern between genuine reality and a curated facade, especially when the stakes are so high?
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"How did two individuals seemingly manage to pull the wool over so many eyes, manipulating systems and minds to their advantage?"
In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delves into the unsettling tales of Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrant. With Lori Hellis, an author and criminal defense lawyer, they shed light on the complexities surrounding these figures, who, under the veneer of respectability, allegedly perpetuated a web of deceit.
For the uninitiated, on the surface, Franke, as Brueski observes, appeared to be nothing more than "a strict parent." However, scratch beneath the surface and a much more sinister portrait emerges. "She really tried to massage this image and portray herself in one way where what we're learning, if true, [is] quite a monster on the other side," Brueski remarked. This observation becomes even more chilling as we learn that even Franke's own sisters were reportedly unaware of her activities.
What is particularly alarming in these narratives is the seeming pattern of isolation. Hildebrant, much like Franke, seems to have a propensity for pushing away those who raise concerns. Hellis draws a parallel with the Lori Vallow case, stating, "We saw it in the Lori Vallow case. I mean, she cut off her entire family on the Cox side of the family. She cut them all off because they questioned what she was doing." This behavioral trait – the isolation from family and friends – appears to be a recurring theme among individuals exhibiting narcissistic tendencies.
As the conversation progressed, the connection to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) emerged. Both Franke and Hildebrant had affiliations with the church, and what Hellis reveals next is indeed troubling.
"Here's what I find very troubling about the Hildebrand and Frankie case," Hellis began. Jodi Hildebrand, notably a therapist with an MSW in social work, was reportedly on numerous church referral lists. This means that she was actively receiving clients from the church, with church leaders referring members to her for therapeutic sessions. The implications of such a dynamic become deeply problematic when the depth of Hildebrant's alleged actions is considered.
In a revealing interview, Jodi Hildebrand's niece, Jessie, unveiled that she was subjected to Hildebrant's so-called therapeutic techniques. More alarming is that Jessie was tasked with handling the billing for Hildebrant's "therapy practice." What left Jessie deeply disturbed was the revelation that "about 80 percent of the billing was being paid for by the LDS church."
The LDS Church, known for its compassionate endeavors, would fund counseling sessions for members in need. In this twisted tale, not only was the church unintentionally endorsing someone potentially causing harm, but it was also financially supporting it. As Brueski poignantly notes, while there's nothing inherently wrong with church-funded counseling, the misuse and abuse of such a system are "sickening."
The Franke-Hildebrant narrative forces us to question the systems in place, their vulnerabilities, and the lengths to which individuals might go to exploit them. The intertwining of personal ambition, alleged malpractice, and institutional trust provides a cautionary tale about vigilance, accountability, and the ever-present danger of deception lurking beneath seemingly benign exteriors.
"In a world where appearances can be manipulated, how do we ensure that those entrusted with power and influence remain true to their responsibilities?"
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Does the perfect facade crafted for millions on social media hide chilling secrets behind closed doors?
In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski had an enlightening conversation with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott about the perplexing case of Ruby Frank and Jodie Hildebrandt, two women whose questionable behaviors recently made headlines. The revelations from this story were not just deeply unsettling, but they also shine a spotlight on a concerning trend in the Mormon faith.
Ruby Frank, known for her "curated blonde, attractive appearance" and vast reach on YouTube, gathered over two and a half million subscribers who were torn between admiration and distaste for her parenting approach. On the surface, Frank’s parenting seemed rooted in old-school methods, such as not delivering a forgotten lunch to ensure a lesson is learned. However, as Brueski pointed out, there's a "world of difference developmentally between a six-year-old and a 12-year-old," and perhaps, Frank’s judgments were misplaced or even detrimental.
While many saw her as pious and strict, others were horrified by her on-screen demeanor towards her children. Beyond the camera, darker details began to emerge, hinting at a deeply troubling double life. But it poses a compelling question: "Is this more common than we think of individuals very heavy on social media?" as Brueski inquired. The way Frank presented herself was like a facade, expertly crafted for her online audience, all while hiding disturbing behaviors.
The mystery deepens with Jodie Hildebrandt, described as a mix between a therapist and a cult leader, who shared a dubious business venture with Frank. Their "counseling agency" oddly focused on topics such as preventing masturbation and the dangers of sexuality. Comparing them to the notorious Chad and Lori Daybell, Scott remarked, "when you put nutty people together, it just sort of amplifies and intensifies."
One can't ignore the apparent pattern of alarming incidents emerging from the Mormon or Latter-day Saint (LDS) faith. While both hosts emphasized that their intent wasn't to cast a shadow over the entire religion, there seems to be a growing list of individuals within the faith showcasing detrimental behavior. If such attitudes are increasingly emanating from the community, is it then, as Brueski suggests, "something to be looked at"?
Ruby Frank's daughter's testimony adds another layer to this chilling tale. After Frank's arrest, her 20-year-old daughter took to social media with a single word: "finally." She revealed her unsuccessful attempts to report her mother's actions for years. This points to a wider systemic issue. Scott hinted at a potential failure of Child Protection Services (CPS) due to lack of funding or staff, a plight that's unfortunately familiar in many jurisdictions.
As the discussion veered towards Frank’s husband, a college professor, opinions diverged. While he claimed ignorance regarding the abusive behaviors, Scott found it hard to label him a victim. Was he passive, turning a blind eye to Frank's actions, or complicit in them? If the latter, where does one draw the line between moral and legal responsibility?
The story of Ruby Frank and Jodie Hildebrandt is a distressing reminder of the facades people can build, especially in the age of social media, and the hidden dangers lurking beneath seemingly perfect exteriors. As Brueski and Scott delved deep into this harrowing tale, listeners are left contemplating the complexities of human behavior, societal pressures, and the power dynamics within family units.
In a world where our online selves often differ from reality, how many more secrets remain hidden behind the screens?
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In a riveting episode of "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delves deep into the murky waters of child protective services, exploring the intersection between a broken system and the masterful deceit of individuals like Ruby, a narcissist who manages to fool the system at every turn. Brueski's probing query, "Why did it take so long for anybody to look into this on a serious level?" brings to the fore a pressing issue that has haunted child welfare advocates for years.
Brueski is quick to clarify his stance, emphasizing that his intention isn’t to demean the many dedicated workers within the child protective services system. "I've always have to be careful with that because there are many people in it who work their ass off and are not funded. They don't have the resources to do their job correctly." The real culprit, Brueski suggests, may not just be an underfunded system but individuals like Ruby, who know how to play the game all too well.
Offering a deeper perspective, Lori Hellis, a criminal defense lawyer with substantial experience in juvenile cases, sheds light on the delicate balance child welfare systems must strike. "In every state, there is this tightrope between the rights of a parent to raise their children as they see fit, and when that tips over into abuse and neglect," Hellis explains. The challenge for CPS investigators lies in discerning genuine threats from benign but nonconventional parenting practices.
Hellis goes on to highlight the complexities that investigators face in cases that, on the surface, present no obvious signs of neglect or abuse. "So They go into a home and they see a home that is appropriately furnished. The kids have food. They appear to be being homeschooled in a responsible way." The key, according to her, is determining if there is a "true risk of harm" to the children.
This conundrum becomes even more profound in homes that are upscale and wield significant societal influence. As Brueski poignantly questions, "Are people getting better at hiding this stuff?" The conversation delves into how our societal perceptions can often be misguided, equating affluence or apparent happiness with well-being.
Hellis raises an alarming point about how the digital age might be aiding these deceptive tendencies. With the vast amount of information available online, she believes people have become more adept at understanding what the state looks for and, consequently, how to hide potential red flags. The darker corners of the internet may empower wrongdoers with the tools they need to elude detection.
The episode then shifts to the nuances of emotional abuse, a form of mistreatment often overlooked because of its intangibility. As Brueski puts it, "It's also a reflection just of how we handle mental health in our country to begin with." The discussion concludes with a heart-wrenching case involving Ruby Frankie, illustrating how the unsuspecting are sometimes trapped in toxic therapeutic relationships, manipulated by unscrupulous individuals who exploit their client's vulnerabilities.
In light of such complexities, one can't help but ponder: are we facing a systemic failure, or is it the evolving mastery of deceit that's to blame? The conversation on "Hidden Killers" serves as a compelling reminder that, in the age of information, we must be ever vigilant and discerning, constantly challenging our perceptions and assumptions.
As we reflect on the intricate dance between a possibly flawed system and the cunning deception of some individuals, one has to wonder: In an age where appearances can be so deceiving, how can we truly safeguard our most vulnerable?
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When does "tough love" cross the line into abuse? This was the center of a recent conversation on the podcast "Hidden Killers" between host Tony Brueski and former FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer. They discussed the controversial actions and revelations surrounding YouTube personality, Ruby Frank.
Ruby Frank, once recognized as a "tough love mom", had a significant presence on YouTube with almost two and a half million subscribers on her channel "Eight Passengers". She presented herself as a strict parent, but events took a turn when a child allegedly related to her showed up at a neighbor's doorstep with ankles bound by duct tape and appearing emaciated.
Brueski expressed, "Prior to that...Did it shock me all that much quite honestly of oh, they forgot their lunch. We're just not gonna bring. It'll be a lesson. They'll learn, and they'll remember next time." This statement underlines the controversial nature of "tough love", where some methods, seen as teaching life lessons, are now being critically examined.
As they delved deeper into the topic, Coffindaffer stated, "I truly believe that she was a wolf in sheep's clothing from the beginning." She hinted that what many fans perceived as merely a tough parenting style was, in actuality, a mask for abusive and neglectful behavior.
Such allegations, especially against someone with a significant online presence, are shocking. The constant surveillance that such internet celebrities are under makes it puzzling how such activities could go unnoticed. But as Brueski puts it, "There was much more going on behind the curtains."
Coffindaffer voiced her concerns about the nature of this alleged abuse: "This is somebody who's sadistic toward her own children. And that takes a real special horrible-natured sadist to do that." These statements highlight the severe nature of the allegations, suggesting that the actions weren't mere disciplinary measures but possibly rooted in deeper psychological issues.
Furthering the narrative, Brueski discussed the blame Ruby Frank attempted to shift onto her children. He mentioned Frank's vague claims of one of her children being abusive towards the others, without providing further details. The insinuation here, although yet to be confirmed, brings to the forefront the potential cycle of abuse. As children raised in an abusive environment, they might develop destructive behaviors.
However, what struck most was Coffindaffer's revelation about an alleged accusation made by Frank. She accused her three-year-old of watching pornography. This shocking revelation raises more questions about the environment within the household. Where did the child gain access to such content? Was this claim a deflection or an exposure of a deeper, more sinister situation?
Coffindaffer then drew a comparison, citing her previous involvement in interviewing individuals in Utah from a small society accused of incest. "I've never seen so many cleft palates...I've never interviewed so many people that literally were cousins," she remarked, hinting at the culturally embedded issues that still plague certain communities. This observation raises the question of whether such cultural considerations may have influenced the events within the Frank household.
The revelations from this podcast episode provide a dark glimpse into the life of a once-popular YouTube personality. It's a grim reminder that what we see online is often a curated version of reality, and sometimes, hidden behind the scenes, are truths far more disturbing than we can imagine.
So, as our screens continue to showcase myriad personalities and parenting styles, one must ponder - how do we differentiate between genuine 'tough love' and something more insidious?
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When does 'parenting' cross the line into abuse?
Tony Brueski, host of the acclaimed podcast "Hidden Killers," delved deep into the twisted narrative of Ruby Frank, a renowned YouTube personality and alleged child abuser. Joined by former FBI Special Agent and Hidden Killers Daily Contributor, Jennifer Coffindaffer, the conversation explored the intersection of social media validation and potential child maltreatment.
Ruby Frank, once held in esteem for her tough-love parenting style on her mommy blog, has recently come under scrutiny for extreme disciplinary actions. "Somewhat reminiscent of Lori Dayville," Brueski commented, hinting at the underlying radical beliefs that might be influencing Frank's controversial parenting methods.
Discussing the potential influence of her blogging career on her parenting style, Coffindaffer opined, "She has over two million people that are supporting her and supporting what she's talking about. So I think it certainly gave her the sense of empowerment and the sense that she wasn't doing anything wrong." The concerning aspect here isn't just the actions of one individual but the validation by millions.
The focus then shifted to an alarming point - the systemic failures of child protective services. "Is the Ruby Frank and Jodi Hildebrandt story another lesson in how broken our system is for child protective services?" Brueski asked. Coffindaffer's response was both empathetic towards the workers in the system and critical of the structure itself. "The system is so broken... the parental rights seem to just overshadow everything that is right," she lamented.
The podcast went on to discuss the role of Frank's husband in the alleged abuse, shedding light on the need for a comprehensive inquiry into the children's experiences. The notion that such potential abuse could remain hidden from another parent living in the same house was deemed unlikely by Coffindaffer. "I just think it's gonna take a real deep historical look," she asserted, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly interviewing the kids and gathering any available evidence.
Brueski and Coffindaffer's conversation paints a bleak picture, intertwining the allure of internet fame with potential abuses behind closed doors. While the discourse highlights a single case, it brings forward a larger societal issue of discerning the boundary between disciplinary actions and outright abuse.
This tale is a stark reminder that online personalities and influencers, despite the façade they might present, are human. Their actions, for better or worse, remain hidden behind the pixels, only surfacing when the screen darkens and real life takes over.
As we ponder the implications of this discussion, one must ask: In the age of online validation, who truly watches out for the vulnerable?
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It's a question that has left millions of fans bewildered: How does a prominent YouTube influencer, adored by millions, become a subject of a shocking child abuse investigation?
Ruby Frankie, the face behind the popular YouTube channel "8 Passengers," along with her business partner Jody Hildebrandt, have been thrust into the spotlight, and not for their usual content. Their arrest followed a harrowing 911 call by a neighbor after discovering an emaciated 12-year-old boy, his wrists and ankles bound with duct tape, knocking at their door. This dark turn of events, which Tony Brueski of the "Hidden Killers" podcast termed a "chilling revelation," has shaken the social media community to its core.
“You know, that was a question I had too, because, as you said, there are so many eyes on this family and they're broadcasting their parenting," Eric Faddis, a former Felony Prosecutor, weighed in on the recent episode of "Hidden Killers."
Indeed, their platform was a window into their lives, or at least what they chose to display. But as Tony posited, how did the world go from watching trivial incidents on her YouTube channel, such as Ruby's refusal to bring lunch to her child at school, to hearing about allegations of child abuse, malnutrition, and possible starvation?
A few sharp-eyed viewers had already raised concerns about the "8 Passengers" content, deeming some parental choices as potentially harmful. This led to a Change.org petition urging child protective services (CPS) to investigate. The service did step in, but found no grounds to act at the time.
Adding more complexity to the narrative, Faddis mentioned the defense called "reasonable parental discipline," which can be employed in child abuse cases. The defense allows parents to justify their actions as their parenting style if they believe it was "reasonable." The line between strict parenting and abuse can sometimes blur, but the events surrounding the Frankies indicate a much more severe scenario.
There's also the haunting revelation that one of Ruby's older children, currently in college, had previously alerted CPS about the conditions at home. "Why was this not investigated further when you literally have a child going, 'Hey, my mom's crazy. She's abusing us,'" Brueski lamented. This revelation puts CPS under scrutiny. Critics argue that the organization sometimes fails to act even when confronted with glaring red flags, while others believe it often oversteps its boundaries.
Faddis offered a potential solution to the challenges plaguing CPS. "I would strongly push for is evidence-based standards," he shared. Rather than leaving decisions solely to the subjective judgment of caseworkers, introducing concrete, evidence-backed standards on parenting, nutrition, and discipline might lead to more accurate evaluations.
It's undeniable that the case of Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt serves as a stark reminder of the perils that may lurk behind the curated images of social media stardom. While fans grapple with the shocking revelations, it's essential to remember the broader picture. As Brueski and Faddis highlighted, there's an urgent need for reform and introspection in child protection systems.
As investigations continue and the full story unfolds, one question remains: How many other cases have gone unnoticed, hidden behind the veil of online fame?
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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