Utah Mommy Blogger Faces Child Abuse Charges

Ruby Franke, a well-known Utah mommy blogger who created lifestyle and parenting videos on YouTube with her partner Jodi Hilderbrandt, appeared in court for the first time last Friday. They face six counts of child abuse charges stemming from allegations of child mistreatment.

Franke and Hilderbrandt operated a popular YouTube channel called ConneXions Classroom, focusing on parenting and lifestyle advice. Both mothers have been charged with six counts of child abuse related to the alleged mistreatment of two children.

The arrests occurred on August 30 when the Santa Clara police received a dispatch call around 10:50 p.m. from a juvenile seeking help.

During the court hearing, Judge Eric Gentry ordered Franke and Hilderbrandt to remain in jail without bail until a hearing scheduled for September 21.

Shocking Discovery

Utah authorities discovered two severely malnourished and emaciated children at a home in Utah before arresting Franke and Hilderbrandt. One of Franke’s six children managed to escape from Hilderbrandt’s residence and sought assistance from a neighbor. The neighbor noticed duct tape around the child’s ankles and wrists and promptly contacted the authorities.

Upon arriving at Hilderbrandt’s residence, the police observed the child’s injuries and severe malnourishment. They immediately transported the child to a nearby hospital for treatment due to deep lacerations and malnourishment.

Virtual Court Appearance

Franke and Hilderbrandt attended the court hearing virtually, wearing orange striped uniforms. Another of Franke’s children, also suffering from malnourishment, was found inside Hilderbrandt’s home after the first child contacted the police. Initially, this child refused medical assistance but was later taken to the hospital.

In total, six children were rescued from Hilderbrandt’s Washington County home.

Compelling Evidence

Evidence presented in court included a YouTube video showing Ruby Franke at Jodi Hilderbrandt’s residence just days before their arrest. The affidavit stated that Franke had knowledge of the abuse, malnourishment, and neglect of her two children at Hilderbrandt’s home.

Franke immediately requested a lawyer and declined to speak with the police at the time of her arrest. Her attorney has not yet responded to inquiries from Fox News Digital.

Disturbing Social Media Posts

Internet users on platforms like TikTok and YouTube began scrutinizing Franke’s and Hilderbrandt’s social media profiles after their arrests, revealing disturbing statements made by the influencers. In one video, Franke appeared to joke about her children being hungry, while another video showed her threatening to cut off a doll’s head.

Serious Charges

Both Franke and Hilderbrandt face charges that include causing or permitting serious physical injury to the two juvenile victims in multiple ways: through physical injuries, torture, starvation or malnutrition, and causing severe emotional harm, according to the Washington County District Attorney’s Office.

Franke’s daughter, Shari Franke, expressed relief on Instagram, stating that justice is finally being served after years of trying to report the abuse to the police and Child Protective Services. Both women are currently in custody at the Washington County Jail in Hurricane, Utah.