A new Netflix true crime documentary has cast a stark light on one of America's most disturbing recent child abuse cases, centring on Utah life coach and family counsellor Jodi Hildebrandt. Alongside YouTube content creator Ruby Franke, Hildebrandt was convicted of multiple counts of aggravated child abuse, leading to a substantial prison sentence that could see her incarcerated for decades.
The Shocking Case and Netflix Documentary
"Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story" is the latest addition to Netflix's extensive true crime library. The series delves into the harrowing events that led to the arrest and conviction of Hildebrandt, the founder of the life-coaching company ConneXions and a prominent figure within her Mormon community. The case gained national notoriety in 2023 when Franke's 12-year-old son escaped from Hildebrandt's home in a desperate state, captured on a neighbour's security camera asking for food and water.
He had been held captive there along with his younger sister, with evidence later revealing the children had been tied up. This escape triggered the investigation that uncovered a pattern of extreme abuse. Hildebrandt had become deeply involved in Franke's family life, fixated on 'fixing' the vlogger's household, which was already known for controversial disciplinary methods.
Jodi Hildebrandt's Prison Sentence Explained
Following their arrest, both women faced six counts of aggravated child abuse. Jodi Hildebrandt ultimately pleaded guilty to four of these counts. In Utah, each count carries a potential prison term of one to 15 years. The judge ordered these sentences to be served consecutively, not concurrently.
This sentencing structure initially meant a minimum of four years and a theoretical maximum of 60 years behind bars. However, Utah state law caps consecutive sentences at 30 years for those not facing life imprisonment or the death penalty. Therefore, Hildebrandt, who is in her mid-50s, now faces a maximum of 30 years in prison. If she serves the full term, she would be in her 80s upon release.
Her first opportunity for parole is scheduled for December 2026. She is currently serving her time at the Utah State Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City. Ruby Franke received an identical sentence and is held at the same facility, though authorities have confirmed the two are kept separately.
Background and Further Allegations of Abuse
The documentary and subsequent reporting have shed light on Hildebrandt's personal history. She is a mother of two adult children, who are believed to be estranged from her. In a book published by Ruby Franke's daughter, Shari, it was noted that Hildebrandt found managing her own young children difficult after gaining full custody in a 1999 divorce.
More disturbingly, Hildebrandt's niece, Jessi, has come forward with allegations of historic abuse. They told ABC News that as a teenager sent to live with their aunt, they endured mistreatment framed as 'tough love.' "She would lock me in this room and write out my sins on paper," Jessi alleged. "She made me sleep outside in the snow. She duct-taped me. I wasn't allowed to speak to anyone." Jessi concluded, "Just because you reframe it as 'tough love,' or 'tough parenting,' that's not love. That is abuse."
The case remains a chilling example of how influence and a facade of guidance can mask profound cruelty, a narrative now detailed for a global audience in the new Netflix series.
