Laura Owens Sentenced to 30 Days in Jail for False Pregnancy Claims Against 'Bachelor' Alum Clayton Echard
Owens, who pleaded guilty to four felony charges, must also serve seven years of probation.
Laura Owens, who falsely claimed to be pregnant with twins fathered by former “Bachelor” star Clayton Echard, has been sentenced to 30 days in county jail and seven years of probation.
Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Rueter issued the sentence on Friday. Owens could face up to 12 years in prison if she violates her probation.
During the sentencing hearing, Owens addressed the court, expressing fear but stating, "I really don’t want that fear to overshadow what I came to say." She continued, "I know there are people who have suffered because of decisions that I made, and I want to take accountability for that. I pleaded guilty to four felonies, and I am profoundly, profoundly sorry for the pain, distress and expense that I’ve caused them."
Echard, 33, also spoke, arguing that Owens was "not sorry — she’s sorry she got caught." He stated his belief that "incarceration is an absolute must" because Owens "will not stop until she’s removed from her environment." He challenged Owens to demonstrate her remorse, adding, "She can say she’s sorry, but show us you actually are."
Owens' sentence stems from a paternity lawsuit she filed in 2023, in which she alleged sexual activity with Echard and claimed she was expecting twins. At the time, she demanded Echard undergo a paternity test and requested a parenting plan.
Echard disputed the claims, asserting they had "never had sexual intercourse." He later shared a receipt for a paternity test, stating, "The truth will set you free," and alleged that Owens had made nearly identical accusations against other individuals.
In August, Owens pleaded guilty to four felony charges: two counts of fraudulent schemes and artifices, one count of perjury, and one count of taking the identity of another person. Ten additional charges, including forgery and tampering with evidence, were dismissed as part of her plea deal. The judge determined the sentence as there was no sentencing agreement between the prosecution and defense.