Night Watch: The ‘Bachelor’ Star and His Shocking Paternity Lawsuit

Crime House Daily – October 3, 2025
Host: Katie Ring

Episode Overview

Tonight’s episode dives deep into the sensational paternity fraud case involving Clayton Eckerd, the former Bachelor star, and Laura Owens, who now faces a slate of felony charges. Host Katie Ring walks through the timeline, legal complexities, and broader implications of the case, spotlighting the dangers of high-profile false allegations. The episode features quotes from the main parties, key legal milestones, and a look ahead to upcoming trials.

Main Theme

The episode investigates the ongoing legal saga of Laura Owens, who falsely accused Clayton Eckerd of fathering her unborn twins. The high-profile case unraveled into charges of fraud, forgery, and perjury against Owens, as multiple victims have come forward and new evidence has emerged.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Background: Clayton Eckerd’s Journey to Fame

• Clayton’s Story:
  • Grew up in Missouri, briefly played in the NFL, transitioned into medical sales, and then found fame on "The Bachelor" (04:16).
  • Known for his romantic idealism and high-profile relationships on reality TV, but ultimately chosen for a new career in real estate in Arizona.
• Laura’s Entrance:
  • Laura Owens, daughter of a San Francisco radio legend, enters Clayton’s life via LinkedIn—initially as an alleged real estate client.

2. The Alleged Incident and Escalation

• May 2023:

  • Laura and Clayton’s relationship quickly turns from professional to intimate, though Clayton insists it did not involve intercourse (04:54).
  • “Some things happened, but there was no sexual intercourse.” – Clayton Eckerd (00:54)

• June 2023:

  • Laura claims to be pregnant after their encounter, sending Clayton an alleged positive pregnancy test.
  • She proposes a “dating contract,” promising not to go public if Clayton dates her.
    • “She would send me these dating contracts, basically saying, if you date me, I will not go public.” – Clayton Eckerd (01:12)
  • Laura escalates, claiming to be carrying twins and sends a doctored ultrasound, later proved to be copied from YouTube.

3. The Lawsuit Goes Public—And So Does the Backlash

• August 2023:
  • Laura files a paternity suit seeking child support.
  • Media and tabloid frenzy turns public opinion against Clayton before any legal proceedings take place (12:12).
  • Multiple other men step forward with similar accusations against Laura.

4. Unraveling the Fraud: Legal Developments

• DNA Testing and Court Hearings (Fall 2023):
  • Two DNA tests find “little to no fetal DNA,” strongly suggesting Laura is not pregnant.
  • Despite evidence, Laura persists, testifying in Nov 2023 that she’s still pregnant; dismissed in Dec 2023 after she admits she’s no longer pregnant (12:12 - 14:45).
• Clayton seeks recourse:
  • Wants an official non-paternity ruling, legal fees, and sanctions.
• Judge Mata’s Ruling (June 2024):
  • Finds for Clayton. Laura is ordered to pay nearly $150,000, her actions deemed “a fraudulent attempt to force communication and/or a relationship with Clayton.”
• Criminal Referral:
  • Judge refers Laura’s case for criminal prosecution in Maricopa County (16:12).

5. Prosecution and the Public Response

• Charges Announced (May 2025):
  • Grand jury indicts Laura Owens on seven felonies, including forgery, perjury, and evidence tampering.
  • Clayton publicly celebrates the charges:

    "Justice is finally served. I am absolutely amped to share this news with you all that today...Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has announced the indictment of Laura Michelle Owens on felony charges related to the paternity scheme."
    — Clayton Eckerd, Instagram (18:22)

  • Laura pleads not guilty, claiming a coordinated harassment campaign against her by “Victims of Laura Owens,” a group of those allegedly defrauded by her.

6. Current Status and What’s Next

• Trial Set for January 2026: Owens' attorneys have not been offered a plea deal; her appeal to the Arizona Supreme Court is denied.
• Ongoing Legal Battles: Laura is now facing charges from the county and is embroiled in another civil case with a previous alleged victim, Michael Maracini (19:40).

Memorable Quotes & Moments

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote | |-----------|------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 00:54 | Clayton Eckerd | "Some things happened, but there was no sexual intercourse." | | 01:12 | Clayton Eckerd | "She would send me these dating contracts, basically saying, if you date me, I will not go public." | | 12:12 | Katie Ring | "Before he gets the chance to defend himself in the court of law, a lot of people in the court of public opinion decide he's guilty." | | 18:22 | Clayton Eckerd | "Justice is finally served. I am absolutely amped to share this news with you all..." |

Important Segments & Timestamps

• Clayton and Laura’s Initial Encounter & Allegations – 04:16–10:00
• Media Reaction and DNA Testing – 12:12–14:45
• Judge Mata’s Ruling and Criminal Referral – 15:00–16:30
• Prosecution, Public Reaction, and Clayton’s Statement – 17:31–19:00
• Ongoing Legal Developments – 19:00–21:00

Final Thoughts & Takeaway

This episode unpacks a case that blends celebrity scandal, legal intrigue, and the dark potential of false allegations. Katie Ring keeps the tone analytical and empathetic—highlighting the necessity of due process and cautioning listeners not to jump to conclusions before courts have spoken. As the case heads to trial in 2026, Crime House Daily promises to keep listeners updated on every development.

“You stay curious and I’ll stay on the case.” — Katie Ring (21:27)

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