The neighbor, upon seeing the child, noticed "duct tape" wrapped around the minor victim's "ankles and wrists" and immediately contacted law enforcement. Police arrived at Hildebrandt's residence in Santa Clara and discovered that the child had severe wounds and was severely malnourished. Due to the extent of his injuries, he was taken to a nearby hospital and placed on a medical hold.

Upon further investigation, law enforcement located another one of Franke's children inside Hildebrandt's home. This child was also malnourished but initially refused medical attention. However, they were later taken to the hospital for treatment. In total, six children were rescued from Hildebrandt's Washington County home.

The charges against Franke and Hildebrandt include six counts of child abuse each. They are accused of causing or permitting serious physical injury to the two juvenile victims in multiple ways, including a combination of physical injuries or torture, starvation or malnutrition that jeopardizes life, and causing severe emotional harm.

During the court hearing, Judge Eric Gentry ordered Franke and Hildebrandt to remain in jail without bond until a bail hearing scheduled for September 21. Both women appeared at the virtual hearing from jail, wearing orange striped uniforms.

Prior to their arrest, Franke and Hildebrandt ran a popular parenting and lifestyle advice blog on YouTube called ConneXions Classroom. They had a significant following on social media platforms, where they shared videos and content related to parenting and lifestyle.

Following their arrests, internet sleuths on TikTok and YouTube began uncovering alarming statements made by the two influencers on their public platforms. In one video, Franke can be heard saying, "My kids are literally starving," and discussing withholding Christmas presents from her two youngest children as a behavioral lesson. In another video, she threatens to cut off a doll's head. These revelations have sparked further concern and scrutiny from the online community.

Franke's daughter, Shari Franke, took to Instagram to share her family's relief that justice is being served. She mentioned that they had been trying to inform the police and Child Protective Services about the abuse for years and expressed gratitude that action is finally being taken. Shari also requested privacy for her family during this challenging time.

Currently, both Franke and Hildebrandt are being held in custody at the Washington County Jail in Hurricane, Utah. Police have requested that they be held without bail.

The case has sent shockwaves through the parenting and influencer communities, as the allegations against Franke and Hildebrandt highlight the dark underbelly of social media fame and the potential dangers associated with online personas. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of all the children involved.