Ruby Franke Kids: Understanding the Story Behind the Controversy

The phrase “Ruby Franke kids” has recently surged in search engine rankings, drawing significant attention across social media platforms, news outlets, and parenting communities. Ruby Franke, a former family vlogger best known for her now-defunct YouTube channel 8 Passengers, has become a controversial figure due to legal issues involving the welfare of her children. As curiosity around the well-being and current status of the Franke children grows, it’s important to approach the topic with sensitivity, accuracy, and a clear understanding of the facts.

In this article, we explore who Ruby Franke is, the current status of her children, and why “Ruby Franke kids” has become such a widely searched keyword.

Who Is Ruby Franke

Ruby Franke rose to internet fame through her YouTube channel 8 Passengers, which she launched in 2015. The channel chronicled the daily life of Ruby, her husband Kevin Franke, and their six children: Shari, Chad, Abby, Julie, Russell, and Eve. 8 Passengers built a large following by offering a seemingly wholesome and candid look into their lives.

At the height of its popularity, the channel had over 2 million subscribers and millions of views on videos that featured parenting moments, family traditions, and home education. However, as time went on, viewers began to question Ruby’s parenting style. Complaints included what some considered to be overly strict or even emotionally harmful disciplinary tactics.

Why Are “Ruby Franke Kids” in the News

The keyword “Ruby Franke kids” gained major traction in 2023 after Ruby was arrested on child abuse charges. She was taken into custody in Utah following disturbing reports about the condition and treatment of her children. According to police reports, one of her younger sons escaped from a home owned by her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, and sought help from a neighbor. The child was found emaciated, with duct tape around his limbs and visible signs of malnourishment.

The arrest led to widespread media coverage, and the public began to scrutinize Ruby’s past videos more closely, noticing warning signs that may have gone overlooked. As a result, searches for terms like “Where are Ruby Franke’s kids now?” and “What happened to the 8 Passengers children?” began trending on platforms like Google and Twitter.

How Many Kids Does Ruby Franke Have

Ruby Franke is the mother of six children:

Shari Franke – The oldest daughter who had distanced herself from the family even before the legal troubles began. She has been vocal on social media about the abuse and has supported the efforts to protect her siblings.

Chad Franke – The second oldest, who has also opened up about his challenging upbringing.

Abby Franke

Julie Franke

Russell Franke

Eve Franke – The youngest child, who was reportedly found in poor condition at the time of Ruby’s arrest.

Following the arrest, the younger four children were taken into protective custody by Utah’s Division of Child and Family Services. Shari and Chad, being older, were not living with Ruby at the time and have shared updates on social media.

The Legal Outcome and Custody Status of Ruby Franke’s Kids

In early 2024, Ruby Franke pled guilty to multiple counts of aggravated child abuse. As part of her plea, she acknowledged mistreating her children in various ways, including withholding food and using extreme disciplinary practices. Her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, was also charged and convicted in connection with the abuse.

The legal proceedings included emotional victim statements and a thorough investigation into the home environment depicted in 8 Passengers. Currently, Ruby Franke is serving a prison sentence, and her younger children are in state custody or with temporary guardians. The courts are working with child psychologists and social workers to ensure their long-term recovery and safety.

How Are Ruby Franke’s Kids Doing Today

Updates on the children’s well-being have been limited due to privacy concerns, but family sources and officials have confirmed that efforts are being made to help them heal. Shari Franke continues to advocate for her siblings and has used her platform to raise awareness about emotional abuse and the importance of child protection.

The future remains uncertain, but many followers and child welfare advocates are hopeful that the Franke children will have the opportunity to heal and rebuild their lives away from the spotlight.

What the “Ruby Franke Kids” Story Teaches Us

The situation surrounding Ruby Franke and her kids has raised important questions about online family content, child exploitation, and the responsibilities of content creators. The rise and fall of 8 Passengers is a cautionary tale about how easily harmful behaviors can be masked by polished social media appearances.

For parents, viewers, and aspiring influencers, the story is a reminder of the ethical obligations we have when children are involved in online content. It has also sparked legislative interest in regulating family vlogging to protect minors from potential harm.

FAQs

What Happened to Ruby Franke’s Kids?

In 2023, Ruby Franke was arrested on charges of child abuse after one of her children escaped from a home and sought help from a neighbor. The child showed signs of severe neglect, including malnutrition. As a result, Ruby’s younger children were placed into protective custody. Shari and Chad, the older children, were not living with Ruby at the time and have distanced themselves from her.

Are Ruby Franke’s Kids Safe Now?

Yes, Ruby Franke’s younger children are now in protective custody under the care of state authorities and are receiving support to ensure their safety and recovery. Shari and Chad, being older, have been more independent and have supported their siblings during this difficult time.

What Legal Charges Does Ruby Franke Face?

Ruby Franke faces multiple charges related to child abuse, including aggravated child abuse. She was arrested following disturbing reports regarding her children’s treatment, and she has pled guilty to some of the charges. The legal proceedings are still ongoing, and Ruby Franke’s case has raised significant awareness about child protection issues.

How Are Ruby Franke’s Kids Doing After the Arrest?

While updates on the children’s emotional well-being remain limited due to privacy concerns, sources have indicated that Ruby’s children are receiving the care and therapy they need to recover from the trauma they experienced. Shari Franke, the oldest child, has continued to advocate for her siblings and has shared her own experiences on social media.

How Can I Help or Support Ruby Franke’s Kids?

At this time, the best way to support Ruby Franke’s children is by respecting their privacy and advocating for stronger child protection laws. Many child advocacy organizations are working to ensure that minors involved in family vlogs are safe from harm and exploitation.

To Conclude

The keyword “Ruby Franke kids” reflects not just a public interest in a high-profile case, but a growing awareness of the risks children face—even within seemingly ordinary families. As the legal system continues to address the consequences of Ruby Franke’s actions, the focus remains on protecting and supporting her children.

To read more, Click Here