Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Moment parenting advice YouTuber Ruby Franke pleads to child abuse charges

Holly Patrick
Tuesday 19 December 2023 08:01 GMT
Ruby Franke pleads guilty to child abuse charges

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Parenting advice YouTuber Ruby Franke pleaded guilty on Monday, 18 December, to four felony counts of second-degree aggravated child abuse for abusing and starving two of her children.

The Utah mother of six gave tips on her once-popular channel called “8 Passengers".

In footage from inside court, Franke - wearing grey and white prison clothing - pleaded guilty to each of the first three charges individually and on the fourth said: “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty.”

Her plea agreement was accepted and sentencing was scheduled for 20 February.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in