A shocking case of child abuse, now the subject of a Netflix true crime series, has resulted in a substantial prison sentence for a former Utah life coach. Jodi Hildebrandt, whose crimes are detailed in Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story, is currently incarcerated for her role in the horrific abuse of two children.
The Crimes and Conviction
Jodi Hildebrandt, the founder of the life-coaching firm ConneXions and a prominent figure in her Mormon community, was convicted on four counts of aggravated child abuse. The charges stemmed from her collaboration with family vlogger Ruby Franke, who had six children and was known for her severe disciplinary methods.
The situation reached a critical point in August 2023 when Franke's 12-year-old son escaped from Hildebrandt's home in Ivins, Utah. Security footage showed the emaciated boy asking a neighbour for food and water. Police discovered he and his younger sister had been subjected to torture, including being tied up and denied basic necessities.
Both Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke were arrested and charged. Hildebrandt ultimately pleaded guilty to four counts. Each count carried a potential sentence of one to 15 years in prison.
Understanding the Prison Sentence
The judge ordered Hildebrandt's sentences to be served consecutively, meaning one after the other. This initially presented a staggering maximum term of 60 years. However, Utah state law caps consecutive sentences for defendants not facing life imprisonment or the death penalty at 30 years.
Therefore, Jodi Hildebrandt, now in her mid-50s, faces a maximum of 30 years behind bars. Her first opportunity for parole is scheduled for December 2026. She is serving her time at the Utah State Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City, kept separate from her co-defendant, Ruby Franke, who received an identical sentence.
The sentence means Hildebrandt could potentially be released in her 80s, ensuring she spends most of her remaining life in prison.
A History of Alleged Abuse and Family Estrangement
Further allegations against Hildebrandt have emerged from her own family. Her niece, Jessi, has spoken publicly about being sent to live with Hildebrandt as a teenager. Jessi alleged to ABC News that her aunt "would lock me in this room and write out my sins on paper," and made her sleep outside in the snow.
Hildebrandt has two adult children who are believed to be estranged from her. Details about their difficult childhood were referenced in a book published by Shari Franke, Ruby Franke's daughter, titled The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom.
The case, amplified by the Netflix documentary, serves as a grim warning about the potential for abuse disguised as discipline or 'tough love' within insular communities.
