Laura Owens Sentenced to 30 Days Jail and Seven Years Probation for Pregnancy Fraud
Laura Owens, 36, was sentenced to 30 days in jail and seven years of probation on October 23, 2026, after pleading guilty to fraud and perjury charges related to fabricated pregnancy claims. The case involved former 'Bachelor' star Clayton Echard and another man, Gregory Gillespie. Judge Jeffrey Rueter rejected calls for a longer prison term, citing Owens' lack of prior criminal history and potential mental health issues, though he warned she could face up to 12.5 years if probation is revoked. Owens apologized in court, while Echard argued she deserved incarceration for emotional abuse. The case gained national attention through true-crime podcasts and online communities.