Ruby Franke is a former U.S. “family-vlogging” YouTuber who ran the channel 8 Passengers, where she documented life with her husband and six children. For years, viewers raised concerns about her harsh parenting style — and in 2023 those concerns escalated into a criminal case.

In August 2023, one of Ruby’s children escaped a house in Utah, appearing malnourished and with injuries, and asked a neighbor for help. Police discovered another child in similar condition and arrested Ruby along with her close associate, parenting coach Jodi Hildebrandt. Prosecutors said the children were subjected to severe punishment, food deprivation, restraints, and emotional abuse.

In early 2024, Ruby pleaded guilty to multiple counts of child abuse and received a prison sentence (to be served in Utah state prison). The case raised major questions about influencer culture, audience responsibility, and how abuse can hide behind “perfect family” content.