False online murder claims left Idaho professor frightened and isolated
University of Idaho history professor Dr Rebecca Scofield says a TikTok tarot reader’s false claims linking her to the 2022 murders left her frightened, isolated and unable to sleep. The case shows how online accusations can cause serious harm, particularly when they spread during a high-profile investigation.
TikToker Ashley Guillard posted hundreds of videos alleging Scofield ordered the killings to conceal a relationship with victim Kaylee Goncalves, though Scofield said she did not know the students. Scofield withdrew from campus life and moved her teaching online; Bryan Kohberger later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison. In March, a court ordered Guillard to pay Scofield $10 million in damages after a defamation lawsuit.
- A tarot reader falsely accused Rebecca Scofield of the Idaho murders.
- Scofield said the videos left her fearful and isolated.
- Guillard was ordered to pay $10 million in damages.
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In 2022, four university students were murdered in Moscow, Idaho. A TikTok tarot reader named Ashley Guillard posted hundreds of videos falsely claiming that Dr Rebecca Scofield, a history professor at the University of Idaho, had ordered the killings. Scofield said she did not even know the murdered students.
The false accusations spread widely online and had a serious impact on Scofield's life. She became frightened and isolated, withdrew from campus activities, and moved her teaching online. The case illustrates how online claims can cause significant harm, particularly when they circulate during a high-profile investigation.
The actual killer, Bryan Kohberger, later pleaded guilty to the murders and was sentenced to life in prison. In March, a court ordered Guillard to pay Scofield $10 million in damages after a defamation lawsuit, recognising the harm caused by the false allegations.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “University of Idaho professor says she paced the halls of her home unable to sleep after online tarot reader falsely accused her of the four murders Bryan Kohberger committed”.