Story perspectives

Psychic Appeals $10M Defamation Ruling in Murder Case

4/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ashley Guillard, a psychic, appeals a $10 million defamation judgment for falsely accusing Rebecca Scofield of involvement in the 2022 murders of four students.
The jury awarded Scofield $2.5 million for financial hardships and $7.5 million in punitive damages.
Guillard, self-represented, filed the Ninth Circuit appeal, arguing the verdict did not align with the evidence.
Bryan Kohberger, the murderer, pleaded guilty in July 2025 and received a life sentence.

History

Historical Context

The 1964 Supreme Court case New York Times Co. v. Sullivan established that public figures must demonstrate "actual malice" to win defamation lawsuits, significantly impacting media accountability. This precedent is evident in Rebecca Scofield's $10 million defamation case against Ashley Guillard, who falsely accused her of murder. The jury awarded Scofield $2.5 million, highlighting ongoing challenges in balancing free speech and reputational rights.

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Story summary

Ashley Guillard, a psychic, appeals a $10 million defamation judgment for falsely accusing Rebecca Scofield of involvement in the 2022 murders of four students.
The jury awarded Scofield $2.5 million for financial hardships and $7.5 million in punitive damages.
Guillard, self-represented, filed the Ninth Circuit appeal, arguing the verdict did not align with the evidence.
Bryan Kohberger, the murderer, pleaded guilty in July 2025 and received a life sentence.

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