University of Idaho Historian Wins Defamation Case Against TikTok Psychic

The University of Idaho historian, Rebecca Scofield, successfully sued Texas TikTok user Ashley Guillard. Guillard accused Scofield, without evidence, of being involved in the murders of four students. Scofield detailed her fears and consequences of the ordeal in a new op-ed.

Accusations and Legal Battle

Scofield first learned about Guillard’s videos around Thanksgiving, two weeks after the student murders. In court, she described lying awake in her son’s bed out of fear for his safety, as his room was closest to an entrance. Despite calling attention to the video inaccuracies, Guillard continued posting. The videos, claiming Scofield had committed a quadruple homicide, attracted millions of views and flooded Scofield with threatening messages.

Impact on Personal Life and Community

Scofield experienced sleepless nights, patrolling her children’s rooms. She taught remotely, feeling as exposed at home as she did in public. The accusations persisted even after the arrest of Bryan Kohberger, the actual suspect. Scofield noted how online platforms magnified false claims, impacting every aspect of her life.

Social Media Responsibility

Scofield emphasized the minimal accountability social media companies face. Section 230 of federal law protects platforms from defamation lawsuits, applying liability only to individuals. Proposals exist to modify this law, either adding exceptions or revoking platform immunity entirely. Scofield urges for accountability, sharing personal experiences as a method of recourse.

Her defamation lawsuit against Guillard resulted in a $10 million award. Guillard, who accused Scofield of orchestrating the murders and having an affair with one victim, is appealing.

The Historical Impact of Communication Technology

Scofield warns that digital platforms profoundly alter reality. Historically, the printing press and radio had significant impacts on global events. Today, social media disrupts traditional truth-seeking processes, despite content creators striving for research integrity.

The Idaho student murders claimed the lives of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. The attack took place off-campus in Moscow, Idaho, in November 2022. Kohberger, who confessed to the murders, has since tried to withdraw his plea and is involved in ongoing legal proceedings.