In a shocking turn of events, Ruby Franke, the Utah mother known for her parenting advice shared on the popular YouTube channel "8 Passengers," has pleaded guilty to four felony counts of second-degree aggravated child abuse. The charges stem from allegations of abusing and starving two of her children, and Franke is now facing the possibility of a prison sentence.

Wearing gray and white jail clothing, Franke appeared in court and expressed deep regret and sorrow as she pleaded guilty to each of the first three charges individually. The emotions were strong as she fought back tears while admitting her guilt for the fourth charge. Franke, however, pleaded not guilty to two other counts, according to court records.

Under Utah law, second-degree aggravated child abuse can be charged when a person knowingly or intentionally inflicts serious physical injury upon a child or allows someone else to do so. Each count carries a sentence of one to 15 years in prison.

A statement released by Winward Law, Franke's legal representation, claimed that the alleged abuse occurred while Franke was under the influence of a relationship counselor named Jodi Hildebrandt, who supposedly led her down a path of distorted morality. The statement goes on to assert that Hildebrandt systematically isolated Franke from her extended family, older children, and her husband, Kevin Franke.

The arrests of Franke and Hildebrandt took place on August 30 after Franke's 12-year-old son managed to escape from Hildebrandt's house in Ivins, southern Utah. The boy, emaciated and with duct tape around his ankles and wrists, sought help from a neighbor, who promptly called the police. Franke's 10-year-old daughter was also found at the residence, and both children were immediately taken to the hospital. As a result, Franke's four youngest children were placed into state custody.

The 911 call released by the St. George Police Department reveals the harrowing ordeal that the children experienced. The 12-year-old boy disclosed that "Jodi" had restrained him with ropes and used cayenne pepper and honey to treat his wounds caused by the restraints, according to a search warrant.

Amidst her incarceration, Franke has reportedly engaged in deep introspection, seeking to reset her moral compass and fully grasp the gravity of her actions. Her attorney stated that she is committed to taking responsibility for her part in the events leading up to her arrest.

In a separate development, Hildebrandt has agreed not to see patients until the allegations against her are addressed by state licensing officials. Her next court hearing is scheduled for December 27, according to court records.

The Franke family has faced criticism through their "8 Passengers" video blog, even before these charges surfaced. Parenting decisions showcased in their videos, such as banning their oldest son from his bedroom for seven months and delivering harsh punishments, have ignited controversy online. Online commenters have expressed concerns regarding the family's methods.

Kevin Franke, Ruby's husband, has filed for divorce in light of these horrific accusations.

As the legal process continues, Utah and the online community await further developments in this troubling case.