BOISE, Idaho — A federal jury has ordered internet personality Ashley Guillard to pay $10 million in damages to University of Idaho professor Rebecca Scofield, delivering a decisive blow to the “true crime” influencer community that fueled baseless conspiracies following the 2022 murders of four college students.
The verdict, reached Friday, Feb. 27, concludes a high-stakes defamation battle that tested the boundaries of digital speech and the real-world consequences of “spiritual intuition” masquerading as investigative journalism.
Breakdown of the $10 Million Verdict
The jury’s award targets two specific areas of defamation that devastated Scofield’s professional and personal reputation:
- $6.5 million in damages related to false allegations that Scofield orchestrated the student murders.
- $3.5 million for false claims regarding an inappropriate romantic relationship with one of the victims.
From Tarot Cards to Federal Court
The case originated in late 2022, during the height of the investigation into the deaths of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Guillard, who gained a following by using tarot cards to “solve” high-profile crimes, posted a series of TikTok videos alleging Scofield was the mastermind behind the killings.
Despite Bryan Kohberger’s eventual arrest and subsequent confession—for which he is currently serving four life sentences—Guillard doubled down on her claims. The court noted that Guillard ignored multiple cease-and-desist letters and a formal press release from the Moscow Police Department explicitly clearing Scofield of any involvement.
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Judicial Ruling on ‘Spiritual Intuition’
In a pivotal June 2024 order, a federal judge ruled that Guillard’s statements were defamatory as a matter of law. The court found the influencer had “no objective basis” for the accusations, noting the claims were rooted solely in “spiritual intuition.”
During the trial, jurors heard testimony regarding the “digital footprint” of such allegations and how they can permanently handicap a professional career, even when proven false.
“Consequences in the Real World”
Following the verdict, Professor Scofield issued a statement emphasizing the necessity of accountability in the digital age.
“The $10 million verdict… sends the clear message that false statements online have consequences in the real world for real people and are unacceptable in our community,” Scofield said. “Today’s decision shows that respect and care should always be granted to victims during these tragedies.”
The Defense and Possible Appeal
Guillard remains defiant. In a marathon 21-part video series posted to TikTok following the ruling, she labeled the verdict “unfair and ridiculous.” In statements provided to the media, Guillard claimed the jury was not impartial and indicated her intent to appeal the decision.
The case serves as a landmark precedent for educators and private citizens targeted by “true crime” content creators who prioritize engagement and sensationalism over verified facts.
