TikTok “Psychic” Ordered to Pay $10 Million for Defaming University of Idaho Professor
A Texas-based TikTok influencer must pay $10 million to a University of Idaho professor she falsely accused of orchestrating the 2022 murders of four students. Ashley Guillard, who gained a following by posting tarot card readings and “psychic” insights on high-profile cases, lost a defamation lawsuit brought by Rebecca Scofield, an associate professor of American history at the university.
The Case and the Accusations
In November 2022, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle, Madison Mogen, and Kaylee Goncalves were stabbed to death in their off-campus home in Moscow, Idaho, captivating national attention. Guillard, who has over 100,000 followers on TikTok, began posting videos approximately two weeks later, alleging that Scofield was responsible for the murders.
Guillard claimed Scofield had a romantic relationship with one of the victims, a student she allegedly had never met, and further asserted that the professor “ordered” the killings to cover up the affair. These posts included Scofield’s photos and contact information, amassing millions of views and shares. Despite police confirming Scofield was not a suspect, the online accusations persisted.
Legal Battle and Trial
Scofield sent cease-and-desist letters to Guillard, demanding she remove the videos, but Guillard refused, even stating in a subsequent video, “I am not stopping.” Scofield filed a lawsuit in December 2022. By June 2024, a judge had already ruled Guillard’s statements defamatory, finding they were based solely on “spiritual intuition” without any factual basis.
The February 2026 trial focused on determining damages. Scofield testified about the severe emotional distress, safety fears, and damage to her career she experienced as a result of the accusations. During cross-examination, Scofield confronted Guillard, stating, “You were making dozens of videos about me, someone you never met, you never talked to—someone you had no connection to.”
Guillard, acting as her own lawyer, argued her posts were protected beliefs rooted in psychic abilities. But, the jury, comprised of four women and three men, unanimously disagreed after less than two hours of deliberation.
The $10 Million Verdict
The jury awarded Scofield $10 million in damages, exceeding the $1 million her attorneys requested. This included $7.5 million in punitive damages, intended to punish Guillard and deter similar behavior, and $2.5 million in compensatory damages for Scofield’s suffering. Reports indicate $6.5 million was tied to the murder accusations and $3.5 million to the false relationship claims.
Implications and Reactions
The verdict has been widely discussed on social media, with many users noting the irony of a “psychic” failing to predict the legal outcome. The case highlights the risks associated with unchecked online content and the potential for defamation. It echoes other online defamation cases, such as those involving families of Sandy Hook victims suing conspiracy theorists.
Bryan Kohberger was later convicted of the murders in July 2025 and sentenced to life in prison, rendering Guillard’s theories baseless. Scofield’s win sends a message to influencers that viral fame does not excuse spreading false information that harms others.
As TikTok continues to influence pop culture, increased scrutiny is expected regarding how influencers handle sensitive topics like unsolved crimes.