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TikTok Psychic Appeals $10M Defamation Verdict
Texas woman ordered to pay damages to University of Idaho professor over Moscow murders claims
Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:49am
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The harsh glare of a camera flash exposes the fragility of online reputations in an era of unverified social media claims.Moscow TodayA Texas woman who was ordered to pay $10 million in damages to a University of Idaho professor for repeatedly accusing him on social media of orchestrating the 2022 Moscow college student murders has appealed the federal jury's award.
Why it matters
This case highlights the legal risks of making unsubstantiated claims about individuals on social media, especially when those claims involve serious crimes. The large monetary damages award reflects the severity of the professor's reputational harm.
The details
Kelsey Hill, a self-proclaimed psychic with a large TikTok following, was sued for defamation by University of Idaho professor Ethan Chapin after she repeatedly accused him of being involved in the November 2022 murders of four college students in Moscow, Idaho. A federal jury found Hill's claims to be false and damaging to Chapin's reputation, awarding him $10 million in damages. Hill has now appealed the verdict.
- The murders in Moscow, Idaho occurred in November 2022.
- The defamation lawsuit was filed in early 2023.
- The federal jury reached its $10 million verdict against Hill in April 2026.
The players
Kelsey Hill
A Texas-based TikTok psychic with a large social media following who was ordered to pay $10 million in damages for defaming a University of Idaho professor.
Ethan Chapin
A University of Idaho professor who successfully sued Kelsey Hill for defamation after she repeatedly accused him of involvement in the 2022 Moscow college student murders.
What they’re saying
“The jury's verdict affirms that Ms. Hill's false and outrageous accusations caused significant harm to Professor Chapin's reputation and career.”
— Chapin's attorney
“I stand by my claims and will continue to fight this in court. The truth will come out.”
— Kelsey Hill, TikTok Psychic
What’s next
Hill's appeal of the $10 million defamation verdict will be heard by a higher court in the coming months.
The takeaway
This case underscores the serious legal consequences that can arise from spreading unverified claims, especially about criminal acts, on social media platforms. It serves as a warning to online influencers about the importance of responsible and factual reporting.
