In a shocking development, Jodi Hildebrandt, a therapist and business partner of YouTube vlogger Ruby Franke, has pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse in a Utah court. Hildebrandt was initially charged with six counts of aggravated child abuse for her actions towards Franke's children, but two of the charges were dropped as part of a plea deal.

The charges against Hildebrandt are second-degree felonies, each carrying a penalty of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. This plea agreement comes just nine days after Franke also pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse. As part of Franke's plea deal, she was expected to testify against Hildebrandt.

Hildebrandt, who owned a counseling business aimed at helping people improve their lives, and Franke, who operated the now-defunct "8 Passengers" channel documenting her life with her husband and six children, were business partners. Franke appeared in several of Hildebrandt's videos, which now serve as evidence of their presence and knowledge of the alleged abuse, malnourishment, and neglect of the children.

The horrifying incident came to light in September when one of Franke's children, malnourished and injured, fled Hildebrandt's Utah home and sought help from a neighbor. Law enforcement authorities were immediately alerted, and upon investigation, they discovered the emaciated child with duct tape around his wrists and ankles. Court documents revealed that the young boy claimed Hildebrandt had restrained him and treated his wounds with a combination of cayenne pepper and honey. Additionally, one of Franke's daughters was also found at Hildebrandt's residence.

Both Franke and Hildebrandt were arrested on August 30, and their subsequent guilty pleas mark a significant development in this distressing case. The court proceedings highlighted the existence of a YouTube video from Hildebrandt's channel, which featured Franke in Hildebrandt's home just two days prior to the arrests. The video served as evidence of the women's presence in the household, as well as their alleged knowledge of the abuse, malnourishment, and neglect endured by the children.

While Franke is scheduled to be sentenced on February 20, 2024, the sentencing date for Hildebrandt has not yet been publicly confirmed. The guilty pleas of both individuals have sent shockwaves through their online communities and raised concerns about the safety and well-being of Franke's children.

As this distressing case unfolds, authorities are diligently working to ensure justice is served, and the affected children receive the support and care they so desperately need.