Full Breakdown
TikTok Psychic Appeals $10 Million Defamation Verdict in Idaho Murder Case
4/13/2026, 10:44:51 PM
Overview of the Case
Ashley Guillard, a Texas-based self-proclaimed psychic and TikTok content creator, is appealing a $10 million judgment awarded to University of Idaho history professor Rebecca Scofield. The jury found Guillard liable for defamation after she made false accusations on social media, alleging that Scofield orchestrated the 2022 murders of four students: Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, and Xana Kernodle. The case has drawn attention to the impact of social media on reputations and the legal consequences of spreading misinformation.
Background of the Allegations
In late 2022, following the brutal stabbings of the four students in Moscow, Idaho, Guillard began posting videos on TikTok claiming that Scofield had a romantic relationship with one of the victims and had ordered the murders to conceal it. Guillard cited tarot card readings as evidence for her allegations, stating, “REBECCA WAS THE ONE TO INITIATE THE PLAN.” Despite the arrest of Bryan Kohberger, a criminology student who later pleaded guilty to the murders, Guillard continued to assert Scofield's involvement, which led to significant public speculation and concern for Scofield's safety.
Jury Verdict and Damages
After a three-day trial in February 2026, a jury unanimously ruled against Guillard, awarding Scofield $2.5 million in compensatory damages for financial hardships and an additional $7.5 million in punitive damages. The jury concluded that Guillard's statements had caused emotional distress and damaged Scofield's reputation. Following the verdict, Scofield's attorneys sought over $165,000 in legal fees, arguing that Guillard's defense was frivolous and lacked foundation.
Appeal and Legal Arguments
On April 6, 2026, Guillard filed a notice of appeal with the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, claiming that the jury's verdict did not align with the evidence presented during the trial. In her filings, Guillard described the lawsuit as “fraudulent” and accused Scofield of lying about her damages and presenting false evidence. Guillard's appeal seeks to overturn the judgment, although it does not specify detailed legal arguments.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Guillard's actions have highlighted the dangers of misinformation spread through social media platforms like TikTok. Scofield's legal team emphasized the emotional toll the false accusations took on her and her family, noting that Guillard ignored cease and desist letters prior to the lawsuit. Guillard's continued assertions of innocence, even after Kohberger's guilty plea, have drawn further scrutiny regarding her credibility.
What's Next
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has marked Guillard's notice of appeal as received and set a briefing schedule extending into July 2026. The outcome of this appeal could have broader implications for defamation cases involving social media and the responsibilities of content creators in verifying their claims.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Unfortunately … I have to appeal,” — Ashley Guillard, TikTok Psychic
- “REBECCA WAS THE ONE TO INITIATE THE PLAN.” — Ashley Guillard, TikTok Psychic
- “Ashley Guillard defended this case frivolously, unreasonably, and without foundation,” — Wendy Olson, Attorney for Rebecca Scofield
This case underscores the intersection of social media, legal accountability, and the potential consequences of unfounded public accusations.
