Clayton Echard on Paternity Suit: 'She Needs to Be Held Accountable'

Paternity Allegations and Initial Claims

The Bachelor alum Clayton Echard addressed a paternity lawsuit brought against him by Arizona resident Laura Owens. The case gained attention in 2023 when Owens accused Echard of fathering her twins and demanded child support payments.

Echard Denies Allegations, Prosecutors Investigate

Echard vehemently denied the allegations. Prosecutors are now arguing that Owens fabricated the entire situation. He shared his perspective on the case during an interview with investigative journalist Kristin Thorne on Us Weekly’s Uncovered podcast.

Owens Faces Multiple Felony Charges

Owens has been charged with multiple felonies, including fraud, forgery, and perjury. These charges stem from allegations that she falsified medical records to support her claim of being pregnant with Echard’s children. She has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Echard Details Initial Contact and Encounter

Echard explained that he initially connected with Owens through a real estate inquiry. He stated they maintained a professional relationship until one night when, “under the influence of marijuana,” he invited her over after receiving a provocative photo. According to Echard, she then performed oral sex, and eleven days later claimed to be pregnant.

Claims of Pregnancy and Demands

Owens allegedly sent Echard an email with a positive pregnancy test. Echard responded, stating the claims were “ridiculous” as they “never had sex.” Despite his denials, Owens continued to insist she was pregnant.

Discovery of a Pattern of Deception

While initially unsure, Echard grew convinced of Owens’ deception. He discovered that Owens had allegedly attempted a similar scheme on another victim. “I got a DM from … one of the previous victim’s now-wife that said, ‘Hey, look at this court case. You’re not alone,’” Echard recalled.

Legal Rulings and Arrest

A family court judge in Arizona ruled that Owens’ claim of pregnancy was likely false and referred the matter to the county attorney. Following an investigation, police and prosecutors determined that Owens fabricated a pregnancy video, altered an ultrasound image, and lied under oath. Owens was arrested in January 2025 and has made several court appearances since.

Plea Deal and Ongoing Legal Process

Prosecutors have offered Owens a plea deal with an expiration date in a few weeks. However, her attorney, Christian Lueders, stated they are “not yet at the point in this case where we are ready to seriously consider a plea agreement.” Both sides are preparing for a potential trial.

Echard's Motivation for Speaking Out

Echard shared his story on the “Love Trapped” podcast produced by Glass Entertainment. He explained his motivation for speaking out was to prevent Owens from harming others. “I want to stop her from ever doing this again. And I want to make sure that, like, we seal the book on this,” he said.

Seeking Accountability and Deterrence

Echard emphasized his desire for Owens to be “held accountable” and expressed hope that his experience would deter others from similar actions. He believes a significant prison sentence could discourage future perpetrators.