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Crime & Justice

Laura Owens admits guilt to multiple felonies in fraud case involving Clayton Echard

Laura Owens pleaded guilty to four felony counts tied to a scheme that falsely claimed a twin pregnancy with Clayton Echard and defrauded him and others.

Laura Owens entered a guilty plea on Friday to four felony charges: two Class 2 counts for fraudulent schemes, a Class 4 count for perjury, and a Class 4 count for identity theft. The court has not yet set a sentence, but the statutes allow up to 12 years of imprisonment for the Class 2 felonies and possible jail terms for the other counts. Victims' lawyers, including Gregg Woodnick, said the plea brings closure after years of legal battles and highlighted the damage Owens' false claims inflicted on real victims.

Clayton Echard posted a supportive message on Instagram, wishing Owens recovery. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 23, 2026, in Maricopa County.

Why it matters

The plea ends a high-profile fraud case that exploited the legal system and harmed multiple individuals.

In this story

Laura Owensguilty pleafraudperjuryidentity theftClayton Echardcourt sentencingvictim impact
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