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

This episode of Hidden Killers dives into the sentencing of Mormon mommy bloggers Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt, who were convicted of child abuse. Host Tony Brueski is joined by former Felony Prosecutor and attorney Eric Faddis to dissect the details of the case and the sentencing process.
Key points discussed:
Sentencing: Both Frankie and Hildebrandt received 4 consecutive 15-year sentences, with the possibility of parole after serving 1 year per sentence. Faddis explains how the final sentence length will be determined by the prison system based on factors like behavior and good time credits.
Plea Deal: The defendants opted for a plea deal to avoid a trial and potentially spare the victims further trauma. Faddis analyzes the strategic move and its potential benefits in terms of reduced sentencing.
Accountability: While both received the same sentence, the discussion delves into whether Frankie, as the alleged ringleader, deserved harsher punishment.
Rehabilitation: Faddis expresses optimism for rehabilitation but questions the depth of change possible after such extreme behavior.
Protecting Children: The episode concludes with the hope that Frankie and Hildebrandt will be kept away from children for an extended period.
Overall, this episode offers a nuanced look at the complexities of the case, the legal aspects of sentencing, and the ongoing challenges of child abuse.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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

Could a mother and her mentor, once trusted with the care and guidance of children, be responsible for their abuse? This troubling question has been answered in the case of Ruby Franke, a parenting YouTuber, and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt. Both women have been sentenced to four consecutive prison terms each, following guilty pleas to child abuse charges.
The case came to light after one of Franke's children fled Hildebrandt's residence in August, seeking help from a neighbor. Franke, known for her "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, and Hildebrandt, who ran ConneXions Classroom, faced six counts of aggravated child abuse, with each count carrying a possible prison term of one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
During sentencing, state prosecutor Eric Clarke likened the environment Franke's children endured to a "concentration camp-like setting," describing Franke's actions as "horrible acts of child abuse." Clarke also labeled Hildebrandt a "significant threat" to the community. In court, Franke acknowledged her guilt and expressed gratitude to the officials who rescued her children. She agreed to testify against Hildebrandt as part of her plea deal.
Hildebrandt's plea agreement revealed her awareness and participation in the abuse. Disturbingly, it included forcing Franke's daughter to repeatedly jump into a cactus and detailed other heinous acts of torture.
Franke's family, including her husband Kevin Franke, who has filed for divorce, has been left to grapple with the aftermath. Kevin's lawyer stated his focus on keeping the children together and under his care. In a recent court appearance, Ruby Franke apologized to her former husband, calling the end of their marriage a "tragedy."
Statements from Franke's family, including her brother Beau Griffiths, suggest Hildebrandt's manipulative influence over Franke. Griffiths, himself a former participant in Hildebrandt's program, accused Hildebrandt of brainwashing his sister.
The sentencing marks the end of a harrowing chapter for the Franke family and raises serious questions about the influence and responsibility of those in positions of trust. As Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt face the consequences of their actions, one wonders: How did such a trusted figure in parenting guidance fall so far from grace?
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Could a mother and her mentor, once trusted with the care and guidance of children, be responsible for their abuse? This troubling question has been answered in the case of Ruby Franke, a parenting YouTuber, and her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt. Both women have been sentenced to four consecutive prison terms each, following guilty pleas to child abuse charges.
The case came to light after one of Franke's children fled Hildebrandt's residence in August, seeking help from a neighbor. Franke, known for her "8 Passengers" YouTube channel, and Hildebrandt, who ran ConneXions Classroom, faced six counts of aggravated child abuse, with each count carrying a possible prison term of one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
During sentencing, state prosecutor Eric Clarke likened the environment Franke's children endured to a "concentration camp-like setting," describing Franke's actions as "horrible acts of child abuse." Clarke also labeled Hildebrandt a "significant threat" to the community. In court, Franke acknowledged her guilt and expressed gratitude to the officials who rescued her children. She agreed to testify against Hildebrandt as part of her plea deal.
Hildebrandt's plea agreement revealed her awareness and participation in the abuse. Disturbingly, it included forcing Franke's daughter to repeatedly jump into a cactus and detailed other heinous acts of torture.
Franke's family, including her husband Kevin Franke, who has filed for divorce, has been left to grapple with the aftermath. Kevin's lawyer stated his focus on keeping the children together and under his care. In a recent court appearance, Ruby Franke apologized to her former husband, calling the end of their marriage a "tragedy."
Statements from Franke's family, including her brother Beau Griffiths, suggest Hildebrandt's manipulative influence over Franke. Griffiths, himself a former participant in Hildebrandt's program, accused Hildebrandt of brainwashing his sister.
The sentencing marks the end of a harrowing chapter for the Franke family and raises serious questions about the influence and responsibility of those in positions of trust. As Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt face the consequences of their actions, one wonders: How did such a trusted figure in parenting guidance fall so far from grace?
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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

Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.
This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.
Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.
Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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

In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," a debate rages over Asa Ellerup's potential Peacock Network payday, linked to her involvement in a documentary about her life as the wife of Rex Heuermann, the alleged Long Island serial killer. Host Tony Brueski, joined by former FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer, delves into the ethical and legal implications of this controversial deal, raising questions about profiteering from crime-related stories.
Asa Ellerup, entangled in her husband's notorious case, stands to earn a significant sum from a documentary produced by 50 Cent's G Unit Productions. This prospect has sparked outrage, particularly among the Long Island community and the victims' families. The documentary's approach, termed as a licensing agreement for Ellerup's image rights by Peacock, thinly veils what many perceive as a blatant attempt at monetizing tragedy.
The outrage has led to proposed legislation in New York aiming to tighten the loopholes in the Son of Sam law. This law, originally designed to prevent criminals from profiting from their notoriety, may soon extend to include defendants' relatives. Attorney John Ray, advocating for the victims' families, strongly supports this amendment, citing the moral implications of allowing relatives like Ellerup to profit under such circumstances.
Coffindaffer, weighing in on this development, expresses her reservations. While the law's intention might be sound, its broad application could inadvertently harm genuine victims connected to criminals. She draws parallels with Kerri Rawson, the daughter of the notorious BTK killer, who has become a vocal advocate for victims, using her traumatic experiences to help others. Rawson's case starkly contrasts with Ellerup's, whose actions have not demonstrated a similar commitment to advocacy or empathy.
The discussion turns to the documentary's potential impact on the ongoing case. Coffindaffer speculates that the documentary could inadvertently lead to new evidence or leads against Rex Heuermann, given the close monitoring of Ellerup's activities and interactions. However, the ethical dilemma remains: should someone like Ellerup be allowed to profit from a situation that has caused immense pain to others?
Brueski and Coffindaffer further explore the implications of such a law on individuals like Melissa Moore, daughter of the Happy Face Killer, who has also used her unfortunate family connection for advocacy. The conversation underscores the complex terrain of victim advocacy and the fine line between leveraging personal experiences for good and exploiting them for financial gain.
As the debate intensifies, the question of Ellerup's true victimhood comes under scrutiny. Unlike Rawson and Moore, Ellerup's actions have been perceived as self-serving, further complicating public opinion about her role in this saga. The documentary deal, while legally permissible under current laws, raises profound moral questions about the commercialization of crime stories and the responsibilities of those involved.
In conclusion, "Hidden Killers" sheds light on the challenging ethical landscape surrounding true crime storytelling. As the legal proceedings around the Son of Sam law expansion continue, the public is left to ponder the balance between storytelling, advocacy, and exploitation. The case of Asa Ellerup serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in narrating stories that emerge from the darkest chapters of human experience.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In the unsettling case of Ruby Franke, a mother and YouTube personality accused of child abuse, a crucial question arises: can a parent, supposedly brainwashed, escape accountability for their actions? This was the focus of a recent episode of "Hidden Killers" with Tony Brueski, featuring insights from Jennifer Coffindaffer, a retired FBI special agent.
Franke's legal team, Windward Law, issued a statement suggesting that Jodi Hildebrandt, Franke's alleged accomplice, manipulated and isolated Franke, leading to a "distorted sense of morality." Coffindaffer, dissecting the letter, expressed skepticism, firmly stating, "I don't buy any of it." According to Coffindaffer, the responsibility for the abuse rests solely on Franke, dismissing the notion of her being another victim in the saga.
The plea agreement, according to Coffindaffer, might not sit well with the judge. It seems to shirk responsibility rather than owning up to the grave actions. Coffindaffer emphasized that judges typically expect genuine remorse and acknowledgment of specific wrongdoings, not generalities or blame-shifting.
Franke's letter, while expressing regret and a desire for personal growth, fails to explicitly detail her actions. Coffindaffer described the letter as too general and lacking in sincerity, akin to a generic press release rather than a heartfelt apology.
The discussion then turned to potential sentencing. Coffindaffer speculated that Franke might receive a relatively lenient sentence, considering the plea agreement's terms, which include the prosecution's promise not to object to future parole requests. This aspect raises concerns about the actual time Franke might serve and the consequences of her actions.
Another critical aspect touched upon in the discussion was the future of Franke’s children. Coffindaffer pointed out that while parental rights were not part of the deal, the children's welfare remains paramount. The ideal scenario, according to Coffindaffer, would be for the children to grow up without their mother’s influence until they are old enough to decide for themselves.
The episode highlighted the complex interplay of manipulation, responsibility, and the quest for redemption in the Franke case. While Franke’s defense portrays her as a victim of Hildebrandt’s manipulation, Coffindaffer and Brueski critically examined this narrative, questioning its sincerity and potential impact on the legal outcome.
As the case unfolds, one can't help but ponder: Is Ruby Franke genuinely remorseful, or is this a calculated legal strategy? And importantly, what does justice look like for the children caught in this harrowing situation? These questions remain at the heart of a case that continues to grip public attention.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com