YouTube Mommy Blogger Arrested for Alleged Child Abuse: Concerns Raised by Fellow Influencers
Months before the arrest of Ruby Franke, a popular mommy blogger, on suspicion of child abuse, other social media influencers and users had been voicing their concerns about the alleged abuse inflicted on her children.
A YouTuber known as “Swoop” who creates documentaries on true crime cases and influencer misconduct had pointed out the troubling behavior in a video back in March. In the video, Swoop emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that it’s not just drama, but something dangerous.
Ruby Franke, a 41-year-old mother of six, was arrested by Santa Clara-Ivins police last Wednesday after receiving a distress call from a youth around 10:50 p.m. The child was found malnourished, emaciated, and with open wounds and duct tape around their extremities. Responding to the call, the police discovered another child in a similar condition at the same residence, and both children were taken to a nearby hospital.
Franke and her partner Jodi Hildebrandt ran a joint YouTube channel called “ConneXions Classrooms.” Their arrest on allegations of aggravated child abuse has sparked attention.
Franke’s daughter, Shari Franke, shared her relief on Instagram, acknowledging the significance of justice being served. She expressed gratitude that the authorities finally took action after years of reporting the issue to the police and Child Protective Services.
Ruby Franke’s YouTube channel “8 Passengers,” which she started in 2015, gained 2.5 million subscribers before she transitioned to a different channel named “ConneXions.”
Internet sleuths had previously pointed out concerning behavior in Franke’s videos. In one instance, she threatened a child with scissors. Swoop questioned the appropriateness of some content, such as children learning to shave, and raised concerns about sending a son to outdoor summer therapy camp.
TikTok also played a role in exposing Franke’s alleged actions, including accusations of withholding food from her children and exploiting them. Observers noted instances where children expressed discomfort being filmed during vulnerable moments, which raised red flags.
Neighbors and family members also expressed concern over Franke’s behavior. A male neighbor revealed that the community had feared for the children’s safety and noted Franke’s interference in their lives.
With Franke and Hildebrandt’s arrest, there is a sense of relief among those close to the situation. Franke’s sister, Bonnie Hoellein, posted a video indicating that the arrest has lifted a weight from their shoulders, as they now know the safety of their nieces and nephews is assured.
The court appearance date for Franke and Hildebrandt remains uncertain.