Tarot Influencer Loses $10M Defamation Lawsuit

A federal jury has awarded $10 million in damages to a university professor who was falsely accused of orchestrating a quadruple murder by a tarot card-reading influencer. Ashley Guillard, based in Houston, made viral TikTok videos in November 2022, incorrectly implicating Professor Rebecca Scofield in the killings of four University of Idaho students.

Following Guillard's disregard for cease and desist letters, Scofield filed a defamation lawsuit in December 2022. The jury's decision of $10 million in damages surpasses the $1 million Scofield's legal team sought for compensatory damages, highlighting the severe consequences of online falsehoods. This verdict underscores that laws governing misinformation apply equally to new media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Legal experts emphasize that this case serves as a crucial lesson for content creators, demonstrating that recklessness with online statements can lead to significant legal and financial penalties. The influencer industry, often seen as playing with content, is now facing tangible repercussions. While Bryan Kohberger pleaded guilty to the murders in July 2025, the legal fallout for false accusers continues.

Despite the substantial judgment, Guillard has stated she is undeterred from continuing to post content, though she plans to be more cautious. She maintains her false claims were an attempt to 'help' the investigation using her tarot card-reading abilities. This stance, however, overlooks the core issue of presenting baseless speculation as fact, and the very real impact such claims have on individuals and communities.