Ruby and Kevin Franke’s Divorce Finalized, Granting Him Full Custody of Children
Ruby and Kevin Franke, well-known personalities from the YouTube channel 8 Passengers, have officially ended their marriage. The couple, who tied the knot in 2000 and shares six children, recently had their divorce finalized by a Utah court. The divorce comes in the wake of Ruby Franke’s incarceration for pleading guilty to the abuse of her two youngest children. Kevin Franke, her former spouse, has been granted full custody of their four minor children as per the terms of their agreement.
In addition to full custody, the divorce settlement specifies that Ruby has already paid any outstanding child support owed. Kevin will also take over ownership of a property in Springville, Utah, that was purchased during their marriage. Ruby retains $85,000 from a withdrawn bank account post-separation, while shared accounts will be awarded to Kevin. The agreement mutually waives any obligation for alimony, with Ruby opting to retain the Franke surname for the time being.
The tragic chain of events leading to their divorce began in 2023 when Ruby Franke and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested following severe abuse inflicted upon Ruby’s children. The authorities were alerted when Ruby’s 12-year-old son managed to escape and seek help from a neighbour in Ivins, Utah. Both Ruby and Hildebrandt pleaded guilty to aggravated child abuse charges and are facing considerable prison sentences, ranging from four to 60 years.
The Franke family’s life had been prominently featured on Ruby’s now-deleted YouTube channel, shedding light on their journey and experiences. Kevin, who has expressed his intentions to delve into the dating scene post-divorce, reflected on his future plans, acknowledging the need for closure in his current chapter. Transitioning into a new phase of life, he mentioned, “Well, of course, it’s something I think about, but I’m a man of my honour, and I’m still technically married. And so I’m holding off until the divorce is finalized…”
The Franke case has raised awareness surrounding the influence and responsibilities of online influencers, especially those whose families are in the public eye. This incident has prompted legislative considerations in Utah, aiming to safeguard children of influencers and prevent similar traumatic situations from recurring. As the Franke family navigates through this period of turmoil and adjustment, their story serves as a stark reminder of the complexities faced by families dealing with such challenges.
The profound impact of Ruby and Kevin Franke’s divorce reverberates beyond their personal lives, offering insights into the broader societal conversations around family dynamics and parental responsibilities. The resilience displayed by the Franke children amidst adversity underscores the importance of advocating for child welfare and protection. Moving forward, this case serves as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of actions and the imperative need for support systems to prevent such tragedies.
In the aftermath of the divorce, Kevin Franke’s journey towards healing and rebuilding his life is met with anticipation and apprehension. While the wounds of the past may linger, his resolve to explore new beginnings and embrace the future with optimism reflects the resilience ingrained within him. As the Franke family embarks on separate paths, the echoes of their shared experiences continue to resonate, prompting reflections on accountability, redemption, and the enduring pursuit of healing and growth.