Ruby Frankes, a self-proclaimed cult leader, and her accomplice, Jodi, were convicted of subjecting three children, including two of Ruby's own, to horrific physical and emotional abuse. The victims were found emaciated, covered in open wounds, and bound with duct tape, with signs of severe malnutrition and neglect. Authorities charged the pair with aggravated child abuse, felony child abuse, child neglect, and unlawful restraint. After a damning prosecution, Ruby and Jodi pleaded guilty and were sentenced to four consecutive one to 15-year terms. The disturbing evidence revealed a twisted mindset and justification for abuse, and as you explore this shocking case, you'll uncover the depths of their manipulation and cruelty.
Key Takeaways
• Ruby Frankes and Jodi, accused of child abuse, pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse and received four consecutive one to 15 year terms.
• The two women were arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse, felony child abuse, child neglect, and unlawful restraint.
• Ruby's journal entries revealed a twisted mindset, justification for abuse, and manipulation of children to obey twisted rules.
• The victims, Ruby's 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter, were found emaciated, covered in open wounds, and bound with duct tape, leading to severe malnutrition and hospitalization.
• Ruby apologized to her children and husband, while Jodi was implicated in facilitating Ruby's abuse through her life coaching service.
Horrific Discovery of Child Abuse
Authorities made a horrifying discovery when they found Ruby Frankes' 12-year-old son emaciated, covered in open wounds, and bound with duct tape on his extremities, a nightmarish scene that would be echoed in the discovery of another malnourished child in a nearby home.
The 12-year-old boy was found in a state of severe malnutrition, with open wounds and duct tape restraining his limbs. Further investigation led to the discovery of Ruby's 9-year-old daughter, who was petrified and hidden in an empty closet. Both children were hospitalized for severe malnourishment, revealing a disturbing pattern of child abuse.
The discovery prompted authorities to take swift action, leading to a series of events that would expose a chilling tale of neglect and abuse.
Arrest and Charges Filed
Ruby Frankes and her associate, Jodi, were taken into custody and charged with aggravated child abuse, marking a significant turning point in the disturbing case. The authorities acted swiftly, filing charges in Utah against the two women. Ruby's husband, Kevin, denied any involvement in the crimes, and subsequently filed for divorce from Ruby. The extent of the abuse was alarming, with all three children hospitalized for severe malnourishment.
| Charges Filed | Defendants |
|---|---|
| Aggravated Child Abuse | Ruby Frankes, Jodi |
| Felony Child Abuse | Ruby Frankes, Jodi |
| Child Neglect | Ruby Frankes |
| Unlawful Restraint | Jodi |
The charges brought against Ruby and Jodi reflect the severity of the abuse inflicted upon the children.
Family Reacts to the Arrests
Ruby's estranged daughter expressed relief that justice was finally being served, marking a significant shift in the family's response to the disturbing case.
The daughter's statement signaled a turning point in the family's reaction to the allegations, as Ruby's sisters also spoke out in support of the arrest.
The family emphasized that the safety and well-being of Ruby's children were their top priority, but declined to make any further comments on the situation.
The outpouring of support from Ruby's family members served as a stark contrast to her husband Kevin's previous denials of involvement in the crimes, and his subsequent filing for divorce from Ruby.
Legal Proceedings Unfold
As the legal proceedings unfolded, prosecutors presented a damning case against Ruby and Jodi, highlighting the gruesome extent of the child abuse. The evidence against them was overwhelming, and both women ultimately pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse. The sentencing was severe, with both Ruby and Jodi receiving four consecutive one to 15 year terms.
| Defendant | Plea | Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Ruby | Guilty | 4 consecutive 1-15 year terms |
| Jodi | Guilty | 4 consecutive 1-15 year terms |
| Ruby | Apology | To her children and husband |
| Jodi | No statement | |
| Both | Conviction | Child abuse charges |
Disturbing Evidence Revealed
Prosecutors released disturbing evidence, including Ruby's journal entries, which detailed the mistreatment of her children and revealed a distorted reality. The entries exposed Ruby's twisted mindset, showcasing her justification for the abuse. In one entry, Ruby wrote, 'I had to break them to make them stronger.'
The journals also revealed Ruby's manipulation of her children, forcing them to obey her twisted rules. The evidence further implicated Jodi, who facilitated Ruby's abuse through her cult-like life coaching service. The disturbing revelations confirmed the severity of the abuse, supporting the guilty pleas of both Ruby and Jodi.
The prosecution successfully linked the evidence to the aggravated child abuse charges, leading to the women's prison sentences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Was the Purpose of Jodi's Cult-Like Life Coaching Service?
Jodi's cult-like life coaching service was established to manipulate and control individuals. The purpose of this service remains unclear, but it's evident that Jodi used her influence to perpetuate abuse and mistreatment of Ruby's children.
It's likely that Jodi exploited vulnerable followers, including Ruby, to carry out her twisted agenda.
How Did Ruby's Husband, Kevin, Not Know About the Abuse?
Ruby's husband, Kevin, claimed he was unaware of the abuse, stating he was restricted from interacting with the children by Ruby. In audio recordings, Kevin described the rules imposed on him, including not being allowed to eat with the children or enter their rooms.
Prosecutors questioned how Kevin couldn't have known about the abuse, given the restrictive environment in the home.
Were There Any Signs of Abuse Reported Before the Discovery?
There were no reported signs of abuse before the discovery of the malnourished children. Authorities only became aware of the situation when they found Ruby's 12-year-old son emaciated and injured, leading to the arrest of Ruby and Jodi.
Prior to this, no complaints or concerns about child abuse had been filed, and the family's private nature made it difficult for outsiders to detect any issues.
How Did Ruby and Jodi's Relationship Begin and Evolve?
Ruby and Jodi's relationship began through Jodi's life coaching service, which gradually evolved into a cult-like following.
Ruby, drawn to Jodi's charismatic persona, became deeply entrenched in the group, eventually surrendering control to Jodi.
As their bond strengthened, Ruby's dependence on Jodi intensified, and her children suffered the consequences.
Will the Recovered Children Receive Long-Term Therapy and Support?
The recovered children, victims of severe malnourishment and abuse, will require essential long-term therapy and support to overcome their traumatic experiences.
It's important to provide them with professional help to address the emotional and psychological scars inflicted upon them.
A thorough rehabilitation plan, including counseling and therapy sessions, will be vital in facilitating their recovery and readjustment to a normal life.
Conclusion
As the courtroom doors closed, the devastating reality of Ruby Frankes' and Jodi's crimes came into sharp focus. The once-influential life coach's dark secrets were laid bare, exposing a trail of terror and neglect that left three innocent children scarred.
The sound of handcuffs echoing through the halls marked the end of a twisted reign of terror, as the perpetrators faced the consequences of their heinous actions. Justice, though belated, had finally been served.
Amina brings over a decade of journalism experience to her role as Editor-in-Chief. Under her leadership, Exquisite Post has flourished, maintaining the highest standards of integrity and excellence. Amina’s commitment to truth and her visionary approach guide the editorial team in producing impactful news stories that resonate with our audience.
