Published September 27, 2025 6:50 AM PST
Updated September 27, 2025 10:45 AM PST
Everything You Need to Know About Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke
The three-part docuseries Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke premiered on February 27, 2025, revealing the tragic journey of Ruby Franke, her family, and the rise of harmful influences that led to devastating consequences for her children. Here’s a clear, chronological breakdown of the story.
The Rise and Fall of the Franke Family and 8 Passengers
Ruby and Kevin Franke initially gained popularity on their YouTube channel, 8 Passengers, where they documented their family life with their six children.
However, their seemingly perfect family image began to crumble after Ruby’s controversial parenting choices, such as taking away her son Chad’s bedroom as punishment for several months.
“Ruby admitted she took away Chad’s bedroom for 7 months, which led to losing 90% of their income.”
As the channel faced backlash, Ruby sought guidance from a new figure—Jodi Hildebrandt.
Jodi Hildebrandt’s Influence
Jodi Hildebrandt, who claims to be a licensed clinical mental health counselor, became a significant influence on Ruby and her family.
“Jodi’s old business partner said she would get enamored over clients with more money and fame.”
In May 2021, Jodi called Ruby late one night, claiming she was seeing shadows and experiencing paranormal disturbances.Once there, Jodi began having episodes where she spoke in different voices and repeatedly said, “She’s mine.” Ruby saw this as a sign that they were being called to help and invited Jodi in to their home to stay in their eldest daughter Shari’s room.
As Jodi’s episodes escalated, Ruby grew more convinced they needed to help her. This belief led Ruby to make significant changes in the family dynamic.
Ruby eventually began sleeping with Jodi every night during these episodes, dismissing Kevin from the room.
The situation became increasingly concerning as Ruby’s focus shifted entirely to Jodi’s well-being, while the rest of the family was pushed aside.
The Shift in Family Dynamics
As Jodi settled in, Ruby’s behavior grew more erratic. She became convinced that certain family members, including Chad, were causing Jodi’s supposed paranormal episodes. Ruby eventually asked Chad, Kevin, and Shari to leave, isolating herself with Jodi and the four youngest children.
“Ruby kicked Kevin, Chad, and Shari out of the home, claiming they were all evil and leaving the four youngest children alone with Jodi and Ruby.”
Neighbors and Authorities Notice the Changes
Neighbors began to notice the children were often left alone, and Shari, the eldest, requested a wellness check on the younger kids. However, when police arrived, no one answered the door, and the case was closed due to a lack of physical evidence.
The Escape and Discovery of Abuse
Ten months later, one of the the youngest son managed to escape through a window and sought help from a nearby house. Authorities were contacted immediately, and the child was found in a state of severe neglect.
“The dispatcher was told, ‘He’s emaciated. He’s got duct tape around each ankle. He’s hungry. He’s thirsty.’ He broke down crying saying “this kid has obviously been – he’s been detained he’s covered in wounds” ”
The police arrest Jodi Hildebrandt in her St. George home where they also found Ruby’s youngest daughter. The two middle children were located at a friend of Ruby’s nearby.
Chad Franke’s Initial Shock Over Ruby Franke’s Arrest
While working, Chad Franke’s coworker approached him, saying,
“Hey, it’s all over the news. I’m so sorry let me know if you need anything.”
This was the moment Chad learned of his mother Ruby Franke’s arrest and the abuse of his siblings. Shocked and confused, Chad initially thought it might be a setup, as he had always believed Ruby and Jodi were “God’s chosen people.”
Ruby Franke’s Journal Entries Documenting Abuse
In Ruby Franke’s blue folder, police discovered a chilling journal entry from July 10, 2023. The entry described her twisted beliefs about obedience and punishment, including forcing a child into the sun and using a cactus poker to prod him. Ruby believed the children were possessed, describing them as “deplorable evil spirits.”
“I told the boy he emulated a snake if he what’s emulate the savior he needs to be 100% obedient with exactness. The body must engage in good work and the good works need to be painful I have the flower of his and he must obey.” I push him into the sun, he comes back I come back with a cactus poker, when I poke his back to get in the sun he doesn’t even flinch. I told him give your demons friend a message for me, I will not stop. I will not rest. I will not leave. I will fight him until the day you die.”
Chad Franke’s Attempt to Reach His Family After the Arrest
After realizing the truth, Chad Franke reached out to both Ruby and Jodi but received no response. Desperate for answers,
Chad texted his father “Dad, this is Chad. I have no place to go, everyone is arrested.”
Kevin responded, offering Chad a chance to meet up, and soon they were able to have a crucial conversation about the abuse.
Kevin Franke and Chad Franke Confront the Truth About Abuse
When Kevin Franke and Chad reunited, the conversation turned to the horrors they had both experienced.
Kevin shared how the children were treated as “deplorable evil spirits,” but was informed by the neighbors of the true horrors that had been going on.
Chad came to terms with the fact that everything they had been told was a lie. Let me tell you this painful realization definitely marked a pivotal moment for both father and son.
Ruby and Jodi Franke’s Legal Consequences: 30 Years in Prison
After pleading guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, Ruby and Jodi Franke will each serve up to 30 years in prison for their role in the abuse of their children.
Their conviction serves as a powerful reminder of the need to protect children from harm.
Ruby Franke’s Arrest and Aftermath
Following Jodi’s arrest, Ruby reached out to Kevin, asking him to pick up their children from the police station, claiming the youngest two were demonically possessed. Kevin, who had no idea of the extent of the abuse, was left shocked by Ruby’s call.
“Ruby called Kevin, saying, ‘The two youngest children are demonically possessed, and one of them has gotten out. I can’t imagine the lies he’s telling the police.’”
The Kids’ Reaction and Long-Term Impact
Shari and Chad, now struggling with the trauma of their past, had mixed feelings about ever speaking to Ruby again. Shari firmly stated that she would never speak to her mother again, while Chad, though conflicted, expressed a desire for Ruby to face consequences for her actions.
“Shari said, ‘I will never talk to her again whether she’s the most apologetic person in the world or not that doesn’t change anything for me we have one childhood and one mom and that was mine..’”
Ruby and Jodi were both sentenced to up to 30 years in prison for aggravated child abuse, leaving their children to rebuild their lives.
Chad said, “I miss the mother figure I miss how she was when I was very young but I think what she’s going through is deserved and I don’t think she should get out at least until all the kids turn 18 years old but that doesn’t mean that I don’t have love for her’”
Kevin’s Reflections on Ruby and the Family
When asked if he still loved Ruby despite the abuse, Kevin responded:
“Oh yeah, the actions that she did are atrocious but I still feel a longing. I miss her. All of the delivery rooms, all of the moments holding our children. It is easy for the world to hate that woman, and so many want me to join in that chorus, but I cannot turn off all the other memories.”
When reflecting on the entire situation, Kevin shared:
“This really is a story of love, of hope, of family, but this is also a story of deception, of control, and ultimately it’s a story of faith. If you put your faith in the wrong hands, you can lose everything.”
Kevin’s responses are telling of his detachment from the events. While his feelings towards Ruby are mixed, his perspective seems rooted in a long history of conflicting emotions.
What Are the Frankes up to Now?
The Franke family’s story is one of tragedy and deception, but it also highlights the resilience of those who survive abuse. Kevin remains detached as he files for a divorce from Ruby, Shari is now advocating for herself and others, and Chad is finding growth through social media.
This case underscores the importance of protecting children from harm. No child should ever be subjected to abuse, and it’s vital for communities to intervene when safety is at risk. The Frankes’ story is a reminder that we must always prioritize children’s well-being above all.
Protecting Children Comes First
‘The Devil in the Family’ doc is sparking change in family vlogging laws. Read more on the impact and how to help. READ: Ruby Frankie’s Conviction and the Future of Family Vlogging Laws
Support Victims of Child Abuse
Donate to organizations helping abused children:
• National Children’s Alliance: www.nationalchildrensalliance.org
• Childhelp: www.childhelp.org
• Darkness to Light: www.d2l.org
Resources for Protecting Children
• National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
• Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: Childhelp.org
• National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673)
• Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS): Check local listings or visit childwelfare.gov for state-specific services.
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