Ruby Franke, once a well-known parenting YouTuber, has spent the last year behind bars. Her son, Chad Franke, marked the anniversary of her imprisonment, referring to it as her “Prisonversary.” Ruby was sentenced for child abuse, a shocking turn of events for someone who once shared family advice on social media.
Chad’s unique way of acknowledging this anniversary has sparked interest and raised questions about their relationship. The “Prisonversary” post has attracted considerable attention, especially from Ruby’s former fans who had followed her family journey for years.
Chad’s public acknowledgment of the date seems to carry a mixture of dark humor and raw emotion. It illustrates his complex feelings towards his mother and the events that led to her incarceration.
It also offers a glimpse into how Ruby’s children, particularly Chad, have coped with the scandal and their mother’s imprisonment. Here’s all we know about Ruby Franke’s story.
What Happened With Ruby Franke?
Ruby Franke’s story is a dark one. She gained fame through her YouTube channel, sharing her life as a mother of six. Many knew her as the face of “8 Passengers”, a family-focused YouTube channel. But in 2023, her image as a model mother crumbled when she was arrested for child abuse.
ALSO READ: Wynonna Judd’s Daughter Grace Kelley Arrested on 3 New Charges
The arrest followed several reports of child neglect, which included disturbing claims about the treatment of her children. For years, Ruby had built a platform based on strict parenting principles. She was often criticized for her harsh methods, such as taking away her children’s beds or food as a form of discipline.
These decisions, which she defended publicly, were questioned by many viewers long before her arrest. Yet, despite the controversy, she continued to amass a large following, with some fans praising her firm approach to motherhood. However, in 2023, authorities found evidence that she had crossed the line from strict discipline to outright abuse.
Several of Ruby Franke’s children had reportedly endured physical and emotional harm under her care. This abuse wasn’t limited to physical punishment; it included prolonged periods of neglect and isolation.
Among her children, Chad was one of the first to speak out, revealing the trauma he had endured at his mother’s hands. Ruby Franke’s son’s revelations and those of his siblings were pivotal in her arrest and conviction.
Chad described incidents that had long remained hidden from public view, including times when he was denied basic necessities and subjected to harsh punishments that left him scarred. For many, it was shocking to learn that a woman who had built a career on parenting advice could be guilty of such cruelty.
POLL—Do You Support a Single-Payer Healthcare System (Medicare for All)?
Is Ruby Franke Still Married?
Ruby Franke’s husband, Kevin Franke, was not charged with any crimes related to the abuse. While they were married at the time of her arrest, their relationship has since changed. Kevin reportedly distanced himself from Ruby after her arrest, and by November 2023, their marriage was on shaky ground.
According to reports, Ruby Franke’s husband, Kevin, had no idea about the abuse that was happening under his roof. The couple’s marriage had been the subject of scrutiny even before Ruby Franke’s arrest. Some viewers had noted signs of strain in their relationship, particularly in how Ruby portrayed Kevin’s role in their family.
He often appeared less involved in the day-to-day parenting decisions, which Ruby seemed to handle almost entirely on her own. Following Ruby’s arrest, Kevin’s absence from the spotlight only fueled speculation about the state of their marriage.
Although Ruby’s legal troubles have overshadowed much of her personal life, Kevin has maintained his innocence. He has claimed that he was unaware of the extent of the abuse and that Ruby had been in charge of most of the household decisions.
Many people wonder how much Kevin truly knows, but he remains free while Ruby continues her sentence. Despite distancing himself from Ruby, Kevin’s role in the family dynamic remains a point of contention.
WATCH: California Police Arrests Woman for Allegedly Stealing 65 Stanley Cups
Some critics argue that as a father, he should have been more involved and should have recognized the signs of abuse earlier. Others believe that Ruby’s overbearing nature may have made it difficult for Kevin to intervene, especially if he was unaware of the full scope of the situation.
Did Ruby Franke’s Husband Know About the Abuse?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Ruby Franke’s story is whether her husband, Kevin, knew about the abuse. According to reports, Kevin told police that he was unaware of what was happening with his children.
He explained that Ruby had taken on a more dominant role in their household, making most of the decisions and handling the children’s discipline. Kevin’s statements to law enforcement suggested that he had been kept in the dark about Ruby Franke’s abusive behavior.
He claimed that she had been heavily influenced by Jodi Hildebrandt, a therapist with whom she collaborated. Some believe that Ruby’s relationship with Jodi played a role in her abusive actions, while others think Kevin should have been more aware of what was going on.
Did Jodi and Ruby Sleep Together?
Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt’s relationship has raised eyebrows for multiple reasons. Many have speculated about the nature of their connection, especially after reports emerged that the two women had become inseparable. According to some sources, Ruby and Jodi began sleeping together during the period when the abuse occurred.
The two women’s close relationship has led some to believe that Jodi had a significant influence over Ruby. Jodi is said to have encouraged Ruby’s harsh parenting methods, pushing her to take extreme measures with her children.
While there’s no concrete evidence that their relationship went beyond a close friendship, the rumors have certainly added a layer of intrigue to the case. While these rumors remain largely speculative, they reflect the confusion and suspicion surrounding Ruby Franke’s downfall.
What Happens Next for Ruby Franke?
With Ruby Franke serving time for child abuse, her once-thriving online presence has vanished. Her children, including Chad, have moved on, each coping with the situation in their own way. Chad’s decision to publicly acknowledge his mother’s “Prisonversary” shows that he hasn’t forgotten the events that led to her downfall.
At 18, Chad is starting to carve out his own life, but his relationship with his mother remains complicated. Ruby Franke’s story reminds us how quickly public figures can fall from grace, and her family is still picking up the pieces of their shattered lives.
Many fans wonder what will happen to Ruby once she finishes her sentence. Will she try to reconnect with her husband, or will their relationship remain distant? Speculation also surrounds her close bond with Jodi, especially given the rumors about how the two sleep together.
As Ruby continues serving her time, her story serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceiving, and the consequences of her actions will likely follow her for years to come.
You Might Also Like:
Miley Cyrus Faces Copyright Lawsuit Over Hit Song “Flowers”
Caught in a Rip Current? Here’s How to Break Free and Stay Alive
High Fiber Foods: Your Guide to a Balanced Diet and Optimal Wellness
Overdue Book Returned to Virginia Library After 50 Years
Rare Orange Lobster Returns to Its Habitat After Rescue From a Long Island Stop & Shop