Home / Crime and Justice / Laura Owens Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Perjury in Shocking Case
Laura Owens Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Perjury in Shocking Case
23 Oct
Summary
- Owens pleaded guilty to fraudulent schemes, perjury, and identity theft.
- She falsely claimed impregnation by Clayton Echard and another man.
- Sentencing is scheduled for October 23, with potential prison time.
Laura Owens will appear in court on October 23 for her sentencing following a guilty plea to four felony charges. These charges stem from her false claims of being impregnated by former 'Bachelor' star Clayton Echard and another Arizona man.
Owens admitted to two counts of fraudulent schemes, one count of perjury, and one count of identity theft on August 28. The plea agreement leaves sentencing for one fraudulent scheme count to the judge's discretion, potentially leading to a prison sentence of three to 12 years, with a presumptive term of five years.
The criminal case originated from Owens' civil dispute with Echard, who challenged her claims of fathering twins. A judge found Owens had falsified evidence and lied under oath, leading to a referral to prosecutors.
Prosecutors accused Owens of using forged medical records and other women's identities to support her false pregnancy claims against Echard and Gregory Gillespie. She faces supervised probation for the other three counts and must pay restitution to the victims. Ten additional charges were dismissed as part of the plea deal.
