The arrest and conviction of former mommy vlogger Ruby Franke for child abuse sent shockwaves through social media. Nine months after the initial arrest, alongside her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt, the community continues to grapple with the harrowing details. As Franke serves her sentence, family members are slowly beginning to share their perspectives, shedding light on the complex emotions and lingering questions surrounding the case.
Chad Franke: Finding Solace in the Public Eye
Chad Franke, Ruby’s eldest son, has chosen to process his emotions publicly. While navigating the trauma of his upbringing and the public scrutiny surrounding his family, Chad has utilized social media platforms like Twitch and Instagram to connect with others and answer questions about his experiences.
“I still haven’t spoken to Chad and I certainly haven’t spoken to Sherri,” says a frequent observer of the family. “Sherri has made it clear she doesn’t want to speak publicly, but Chad has been vocal in online forums, answering questions about his interactions with Jodi and what life was like during that time.”
Chad’s willingness to engage, often while gaming and interacting with viewers, has resonated with many who see him seeking a sense of normalcy amidst extraordinary circumstances. His approach, though unconventional, highlights the individual nature of healing and coping mechanisms.
Ruby’s Sisters: Grappling with Guilt and Faith
Ruby’s sisters, Bonnie, Julie, and Ellie, initially released a joint statement expressing relief at the children’s safety and acknowledging their efforts to intervene. However, their responses since sentencing have been sporadic, reflecting their personal struggles with the situation.
Bonnie, in particular, has been vocal about the emotional toll of the experience. She has shared her frustration with the redacted journals, stating in a recent video, “You only know what’s been approved to share with the media … you have no idea what else is in there or surrounds this.” Her words hint at a depth of knowledge and pain yet to be fully revealed.
Julie and Ellie have been more reserved, focusing on their own families and choosing to process the situation privately. Their silence speaks volumes about the delicate balance between public scrutiny and personal healing.
Kevin Franke: Seeking Justice and Healing for His Family
Kevin Franke, Ruby’s estranged husband, has chosen to navigate the aftermath through legal avenues. He filed for divorce shortly after Ruby’s arrest and is now pursuing legal action against Jodi Hildebrandt for the abuse inflicted upon his children.
“Last we heard was the filing toward Jodi, which was expected,” shares a legal expert following the case. “Kevin needs to prove to the court he is serious about obtaining custody of the children. This legal action is likely a strategic move to expedite that process and secure financial resources to support his family.”
Kevin’s lawsuit, filed by attorney Randy Ker, paints a stark picture of the children’s state upon their rescue. The complaint states, “The children’s personalities, emotions, and psyches were so damaged and altered that it was beyond [Kevin’s] capability to restore them without professional intervention.”
His commitment to his children’s well-being is evident in his pursuit of both justice and the resources necessary for their healing.
A Long Road to Recovery
The Ruby Franke case is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of abuse and the long road to recovery for all involved. As the legal proceedings continue and family members navigate their own healing journeys, the community is left to reflect on the importance of vigilance, support, and the complexities of familial relationships.