In a turn of events that exposes the underbelly of self-proclaimed experts in pornography addiction, Jodi Hildebrandt, a former licensed counselor turned life coach, along with YouTuber Ruby Franke, have been arrested on harrowing charges of child abuse. Though the American Psychological Association does not recognize "pornography addiction" as a legitimate psychological disorder, Hildebrandt had been peddling her ConneXions Classroom courses—curriculum she claims is built on her five-year stint at Cirque Lodge, a drug rehabilitation center. Her LinkedIn profile further embellishes her credentials with a master's degree in educational psychology from the University of Utah. Similarly, Ruby Franke ran the now-defunct YouTube channel 8 Passengers, focusing on her family of eight. Both women frequently collaborated on videos about relationship and parenting advice. The content they shared on ConneXions had garnered criticisms for prioritizing the organization's so-called "principles of truth" over the welfare of children.

The charges against them are egregious and disconcerting. Authorities found a "malnourished minor with open wounds and duct tape on their extremities," who was described as "emaciated." Santa Clara-Ivins Public Safety Department said the juvenile was in such severe condition that emergency medical transport to a local hospital was warranted. Another minor was discovered in a similarly grave condition.

According to the Washington County Attorney's Office in Utah, both women face six counts of aggravated child abuse, which includes allegations of "physical injuries or torture; starvation or malnutrition that jeopardizes life; and causing severe emotional harm to two children." Convictions could result in one to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for each. What makes these revelations particularly jarring is the public persona these women maintained as figures of authority and guidance, only to be unmasked for alleged actions that stand in shocking contrast to the wisdom they professed. Hildebrandt and Franke are being held without bail, their fates now entwined in a judicial system that, unlike their platforms, demands irrefutable proof and accountability.