Ruby Franke is gearing up to make a plea agreement next week, as revealed by her legal representatives. The 41-year-old family vlogger, arrested in Utah on August 30 alongside her business partner and podcast co-host Jodi Hildebrandt, faces six felony counts of child abuse.
According to a statement obtained by PEOPLE, Franke's lawyers announced on Friday that she will enter into a plea deal on Monday during her court appearance in Washington County.
In the statement, Franke's lawyers portrayed her as someone who "found herself on this challenging path under the influence of Ms. Hildebrandt" and claimed she was "led astray." No comments were provided by Hildebrandt's lawyers in response to PEOPLE's request.
The arrest unfolded after Franke's 12-year-old son reportedly escaped Hildebrandt's home in late August, seeking food and water from a neighbor. The neighbor, emotionally describing the boy as "emaciated" and "covered in wounds," called 911, as reported by outlets like KUTV News, ABC News, and the Deseret News in September.
When officers from the Santa Clara Public Safety Department arrived at Hildebrandt's property in Ivens, Utah, they found Franke's 10-year-old daughter in a similar state of malnourishment. Both children were subsequently hospitalized, and charges were filed against Franke and Hildebrandt for six felony counts of child abuse on September 6.
According to the recent statement, Franke is actively cooperating with prosecutors for her plea agreement. The statement described her as a "devoted mother" committed to constant improvement and alleged Hildebrandt's "influence" over her.
Initially seeking guidance from Hildebrandt for continual improvement, Franke was allegedly manipulated over an extended period. Hildebrandt supposedly isolated her from extended family, older children, and her husband, Kevin Franke, distorting her sense of morality.
During her time in Washington County jail, Franke has engaged in introspection, resetting her moral compass and understanding the gravity of her actions.
The statement emphasized Franke's commitment to taking responsibility for her role in the events leading to her incarceration. She has reached out to family members, offering heartfelt apologies to mend relationships and contribute positively to her family's healing journey.
Acknowledging Kevin Franke's divorce filing, the statement mentioned Franke's devastation and her full cooperation to help the children reunite with their father.
The law firm concluded that Winward Law recognizes Franke's profound love for her children and expresses genuine sadness that she was led astray. They believe she is sincere in her commitment to securing the best possible future for her family, with the right support and understanding for healing and growth.
Both Franke and Hildebrandt have been held without bond since their August arrest. On September 7, they made their initial court appearance online, attracting over 1,000 viewers. Following the arrest and charges, Franke's family, neighbors, and community members have voiced concerns about her behavior and parenting style.
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