The recent arrest of Ruby Franke, the YouTube personality behind the now-defunct family channel “8 Passengers,” has sent shockwaves through social media. Franke and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, are facing charges of aggravated child abuse in Utah. But perhaps no one is more surprised by the turn of events than Franke’s husband, Kevin Franke.
Kevin Franke Blindsided by Child Abuse Allegations
In an exclusive interview, Kevin Franke’s lawyer, Randy S. Kester, revealed that his client was “completely shocked” by the allegations against his wife. Kester described Kevin Franke as being “in a fog” as he tries to process the events of the past 13 months.
According to Kester, Kevin Franke first learned of the situation through a phone call from Ruby Franke herself. She reportedly called him from Jodi Hildebrandt’s home in Ivins, Utah, where some of their six children were present.
“Emergency” Call Led Kevin Franke to Children
Ruby Franke reportedly told her husband that it was an “emergency” and that he needed to come to Ivins. Kester emphasized that Ruby Franke knew she could rely on her husband to prioritize their children’s well-being, even though they had been separated for over a year.
While the details of that phone call remain private, it’s clear that Ruby Franke’s plea for help was what ultimately led Kevin Franke to his children’s location. This information sheds light on Kevin Franke’s involvement in the situation, which has been the subject of much speculation online.
Separation and Lack of Contact: A Husband’s Perspective
Kevin and Ruby Franke had been separated for 13 months prior to her arrest, with Kevin Franke having limited contact with their children. This separation, according to Kester, was at Ruby Franke’s request.
“She’s the one who asked him to leave the house,” Kester explained. “[She said] that in order for him to be able to get back together with her and be a family, that she was requesting that he leave the home and that he not contact them or the children.”
Kester went on to say that Ruby Franke assured her husband that everything was “blissful” at home without him. This, he argues, is why Kevin Franke had no reason to believe his children were in danger.
Did Kevin Franke Suspect Abuse?
In response to public scrutiny regarding Kevin Franke’s lack of awareness about potential abuse, Kester maintained that his client had “no idea” what was happening. He emphasized that physical abuse was never a part of their family dynamic.
Kester acknowledged that the dynamic between Kevin and Ruby Franke changed after she partnered with Jodi Hildebrandt, but did not elaborate further. He stated that Kevin Franke was focused on preserving his marriage and trusted Ruby Franke’s judgment regarding their separation.
Seeking Answers: Kevin Franke’s Current Focus
As the legal proceedings unfold, Kevin Franke is focused on reuniting with his children. He has reportedly been granted full custody. While the future remains uncertain for the Franke family, Kevin Franke is determined to provide a safe and loving environment for his children as they navigate this challenging time.
FAQ: Addressing Common Questions
Q: Did Kevin Franke know about the alleged abuse?
A: Kevin Franke’s lawyer maintains that his client had no knowledge of any abuse and was completely shocked by the allegations.
Q: Why was Kevin Franke separated from Ruby Franke?
A: The couple was separated for 13 months at Ruby Franke’s request. She reportedly believed it would help them repair their marriage.
Q: What contact did Kevin Franke have with his children during the separation?
A: Kevin Franke had limited contact with his children during the separation, as per Ruby Franke’s wishes.
Q: What is the current status of Kevin Franke’s relationship with his children?
A: Kevin Franke has been granted full custody of his children and is focused on rebuilding their relationship.
This is a developing story, and more information is expected to emerge as the investigation continues.
