Utah parenting YouTube star pleads guilty to child abuse charges

A former YouTube sensation known for her parenting advice channel '8 Passengers', has admitted guilt to four counts of aggravated child abuse. 

The 41-year-old YouTube influencer entered a plea deal after accusations of mistreating and starving her children came to light following her son's escape from their Utah home.

Wearing a white and grey-striped jail jumpsuit, Ruby Franke expressed deep regret and sorrow for her family's situation during her guilty plea on Monday. She also pledged to testify against her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt.

Franke's troubles began when her malnourished son managed to flee their residence in Ivins, Utah, seeking help from a neighbor for food and water. This led to Franke's arrest in August at the home of Hildebrandt, who was subsequently charged with child abuse as well.

Allegations surfaced suggesting Hildebrandt's influence, as Franke's lawyer highlighted the former collaborator's role in isolating Franke from her extended family and husband, alleging this isolation distorted Franke's moral compass.

Authorities found Franke's son with deep lacerations from being tied up with ropes and severely malnourished. Another child was also discovered in a similar condition, prompting their hospitalization. Ultimately, four of Franke's children were placed in state custody.

Franke's rise to fame on YouTube drew attention for her parenting methods, which received criticism for their strictness. She openly discussed using meal withholding as discipline, and her son claimed to have endured months of punishment by sleeping on a bean bag.

The sentencing for Franke is scheduled for February 20, 2024.