Scottsdale, Arizona — Laura Owens, the daughter of prominent Bay Area radio personality Ronn Owens, has been indicted on multiple felony fraud charges linked to her claims involving reality television star Clayton Echard. The indictment, announced by Maricopa County prosecutors, marks the latest development in a sensational legal drama that has captured public attention.
Owens faces seven counts that include fraud, perjury, forgery, and tampering with evidence, stemming from her legal petition for a court order of paternity against Echard. In her August 2023 filing, Owens alleged that she became pregnant following a sexual encounter with Echard earlier that year. However, she later withdrew her claims, citing a miscarriage.
The public spectacle surrounding this case reached new heights during a June 2024 court hearing, which drew nearly 100 attendees. The courtroom atmosphere was charged with tension, partly fueled by Echard’s fame from his appearances on “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette.” The case garnered widespread attention on social media, with some labeling it a “pregnancy hoax,” while Owens faced accusations of using fake pregnancy props during proceedings.
David Gingras, Owens’ attorney in the civil matter, expressed concern over the indictment, questioning the basis of some charges. He asserted that parts of the indictment seemed disconnected from reality, calling for a fair defense for Owens and urging that facts and law guide the proceedings.
In previous interviews, Owens has maintained that her pregnancy claims were valid, even sharing personal insights about her situation online. She acknowledged attempting to garner public support through media outlets while alleging she has been subjected to a relentless smear campaign from Echard’s supporters. This has reportedly caused distress for both her and her family, especially as her parents have faced backlash for their involvement.
Ronn Owens, who has battled multiple health issues, including cancer and Parkinson’s disease, was drawn into the controversy, facing allegations of exploiting financial support meant for his daughter’s legal troubles. Despite claims of a fraudulent GoFundMe campaign, Laura Owens insists that funds raised were not redirected to her legal expenses.
In a turn of events, Echard took to social media to declare vindication following the indictment. He expressed relief, stating that he was glad to be free from the burden of the case, which had loomed over him for two years.
The legal entanglement began in May 2023, when Owens and Echard’s paths crossed in a real estate context, leading to a brief romantic encounter. Echard has consistently denied her claims, suggesting that Owens fabricated details to maintain a connection with him. He has raised concerns about the legitimacy of medical documents presented by Owens and indicated that she had previously threatened to share their story with the media.
Following a ruling in June 2024, Judge Julie Mata rejected Owens’ claims, criticizing her for failing to provide credible proof of pregnancy. Mata’s findings included allegations of document alterations and deceptive testimonies, compelling her to refer the matter to the District Attorney’s Office for further investigation into potential felony charges.
Amid these unfolding events, new allegations arose, including claims from Echard’s attorneys that Owens had a history of making false pregnancy claims with other partners. In her own accounts, Owens has stated that she had been previously pregnant with former boyfriends, which became the subject of legal disputes involving restraining orders and accusations of coercion.
The situation remains fluid as both Owens and Echard prepare for the next steps in a saga that continues to captivate and bewilder many observers.