TikTok Influencer Faces $10 Million Verdict After Defaming University of Idaho Professor in Viral Murder Theory Videos

A Houston-based influencer has learned the hard way that social media fame does not shield creators from real-world consequences.

Ashley Guillard, known for her tarot card readings and true crime TikTok videos, has been ordered to pay $10 million to a University of Idaho professor she falsely accused of orchestrating a notorious quadruple murder.

How the Viral Theory Took Off

In November 2022, Guillard went viral after posting a series of TikTok videos suggesting that Rebecca Scofield, a professor at the University of Idaho, was behind the murders of four students in Moscow, Idaho.

Guillard went further, implying Scofield had a romantic connection to one of the victims, Kaylee Goncalves, and occasionally incorporated tarot card readings to “support” her theories.

Despite multiple cease and desist letters from Scofield, Guillard continued her videos.

In December 2022, Scofield filed a defamation lawsuit, claiming that Guillard’s claims were baseless and damaging.

The $10 Million Verdict

Nearly four years later, a federal jury sided with Scofield, awarding her $10 million—ten times the amount her lawyers initially sought in compensatory damages.

Domenic Romano, managing attorney at Romano Law, PLLC, described the verdict as a wake-up call for TikTok sleuths.

“Laws that apply in the real world still apply online,” Romano told the Daily Mail.

“This verdict is a clear demonstration of what can happen when content creators ignore the law. It’s a lesson in responsibility.”

Romano added that social media platforms do not exempt creators from legal consequences and that this case makes content creators more aware of the real risks of spreading misinformation.

True Crime Fame Comes With Risks

The rise of amateur true crime sleuths has been fueled by platforms like TikTok, where millions of viewers engage with theories about ongoing or cold cases.

From the Gabby Petito investigation to internet streamers showing up at crime scenes, these content creators often operate with little oversight.

Without journalistic or legal guidelines, some creators blur the line between speculation and accusation.

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Conspiracies are often presented as fact, gaining traction simply through repetition and virality.

TikTok creator Ken Waks experienced firsthand how even well-intentioned theories can backfire.

In 2023, Waks explored a string of drowning deaths in Chicago, speculating on a potential serial killer.

While he was never accused of spreading false information, his motivations were scrutinized, and he has since been more cautious with his true crime content.

Experts Weigh In on Dangers of Misinformation

Private investigator Tom Brennan warned that false claims can derail actual investigations.

“Falsely accusing someone can convolute evidence and misdirect law enforcement,” he said.

Similarly, veteran crime journalist Susan Hendricks stressed that many content creators overlook the human impact of their videos.

“The $10 million verdict sends a message: content creators must consider how their posts affect victims and families,” Hendricks told the Daily Mail.

“This case may change how people approach posting unverified claims.”

Scofield Responds to Justice

For Professor Scofield, the jury’s decision validated the real-world harm caused by Guillard’s false claims.

In a statement, she said: “The $10 million verdict reinforces the judge’s decision and sends a clear message that false statements online have consequences for real people.

I am hopeful that this chapter is behind me, and I can return to a more normal life with my family and the wonderful Moscow community.”

Guillard’s Response

Despite the ruling, Guillard has not stepped away from social media.

On a new TikTok account, she continues posting, defending her videos as an attempt to “help” with the investigation using her tarot skills.

She told the Daily Mail she plans to be more cautious but does not intend to stop creating content entirely.

Impact and Consequences

This case highlights a pivotal moment in the world of online content creation.

For influencers, the stakes are higher than ever: baseless claims can result in enormous legal liabilities, reputational damage, and financial consequences.

What’s Next?

Experts predict this verdict will serve as a cautionary tale for other social media personalities.

Platforms may also face increasing pressure to police false information more rigorously.

The true crime content community is likely to see a shift toward ethical reporting and verified sources.

Summary

Ashley Guillard’s viral TikTok claims against Rebecca Scofield ended in a historic $10 million defamation verdict, marking a watershed moment for social media accountability.

The ruling underscores the responsibility of creators to verify facts before posting, especially when accusations can devastate real lives.

Bulleted Takeaways

• TikTok influencer Ashley Guillard falsely accused University of Idaho professor Rebecca Scofield of orchestrating student murders.
• Guillard’s videos incorporated tarot card readings and baseless personal allegations.
• Federal jury awarded Scofield $10 million in damages, ten times the requested amount.
• Legal experts warn social media creators are not immune from real-world laws.
• True crime content creators are under increased scrutiny for ethics and accuracy.
• The verdict serves as a warning about the dangers of spreading misinformation online.
• Scofield hopes the case restores her life and signals the importance of respecting victims.
• Guillard plans to continue posting content despite the ruling, claiming her intentions were to “help” the investigation.