TikTok user accused Idaho professor of murder; Could pay punitive damages
A TikTok user faces potential punitive damages after a US District Court judge ruled that she defamed a University of Idaho professor with baseless murder allegations.
Ashley Guillard gained online notoriety for claiming that Professor Rebecca Scofield was involved in the November 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students. She based this solely on her tarot card readings. As a result, Guillard continued to assert Scofield’s guilt. This was even after Bryan Kohberger was charged with the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin in December 2022.
Chief US Magistrate Judge Raymond Patricco found that Guillard’s accusations were defamatory. The court’s decision, made on June 6, highlighted that Guillard’s social media posts were motivated by a desire for viral attention. Also, that they were made with a harmful intent. The judge approved a motion for partial summary judgment. In addition, allowed a complaint for punitive damages against Guillard. The ultimate decision regarding punitive damages will be determined by a future jury.
Patricco stated that Guillard’s claims caused harm to Scofield’s reputation. Also, were devoid of any credible evidence. Guillard has since requested a different judge for her case, following the court’s ruling.
This case underscores the serious implications of spreading unsubstantiated claims on social media and the potential legal consequences of defamation. In addition, it shows there are consequences behind social media commentary.
Source: KHQ
TikTok user accused Idaho professor of murder; Could pay punitive damages
