TikTok Influencer Ordered to Pay $10M in Damages Over False Murder Claims

University of Idaho professor awarded substantial compensation after being falsely linked to 2022 student killings

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A TikTok creator known for theorizing about high-profile murder cases has been ordered to pay $10 million in damages to a University of Idaho professor she falsely accused of involvement in the 2022 Moscow student killings. The jury deliberated for just two hours before awarding the professor, Rebecca Scofield, far more than what her attorneys were seeking, including $7.5 million in punitive damages against the influencer, Ashley Guillard.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences that can arise from spreading misinformation and false accusations online, even by those claiming to have 'spiritual intuition.' The substantial damages awarded serve as a warning that there are legal repercussions for defamation, especially when it causes significant reputational and emotional harm to the victim.

The details

Guillard, a 41-year-old TikTok creator, made a series of videos claiming that Scofield, a history professor at the University of Idaho, was responsible for the murders of four students in November 2022. Despite the fact that Bryan Kohberger had pleaded guilty to the killings, Guillard continued to post about Scofield, alleging that she had orchestrated the murders after one of the victims threatened to expose their romantic relationship. Scofield told the court that Guillard's 112 videos caused her severe anxiety, PTSD, and intense nerve pain, and made it difficult for her to work at the university.

  • In November 2022, four University of Idaho students were murdered.
  • In July 2025, Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders.
  • Up until August 2025, Guillard was still making videos falsely implicating Scofield.

The players

Ashley Guillard

A 41-year-old TikTok creator known for theorizing about high-profile murder cases, who falsely accused University of Idaho professor Rebecca Scofield of involvement in the 2022 Moscow student killings.

Rebecca Scofield

A history professor at the University of Idaho who was falsely accused by Guillard of orchestrating the 2022 murders of four students in Moscow, Idaho.

Bryan Kohberger

The individual who pleaded guilty to the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students.

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What they’re saying

“You spoke lies into a camera, about me and my husband. You were making (dozens) of videos about me, someone you never met, you never talked to — someone you had no connection to.”

— Rebecca Scofield, University of Idaho Professor

“It was my understanding that I do not have to hold facts or documents to exercise speech.”

— Ashley Guillard

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Ashley Guillard to appeal the $10 million judgment.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder that spreading misinformation and false accusations online, even under the guise of 'spiritual intuition,' can have serious legal consequences. The substantial damages awarded to the professor underscore the need for greater accountability and responsibility when it comes to the content shared on social media platforms.