Today serial pregnancy fraud Laura Owens was sentenced for her crimes against multiple victims. Laura’s abuse of the courts is harmful to women who bring forward honest claims and rely on our justice system. Years ago this man, Clayton Echard, made a first impression on me not because of a scandal or because of a rose ceremony from hell, but because I remembered his vulnerability and grace when he was presented with hatred towards him on national television. Clayton has never been afraid to be himself. I reached out to him in one of my own tough moments and I was met with kindness and sincerity that meant a lot to me. He didn’t have to take the time to help me. This happened privately where no one would ever know unless I chose to disclose it. He’s just a kind person who truly wants to help other people. A lot has happened since then. It’s been years. There have been many different haircuts. But after all this time and everything he’s faced, I’ve never seen his humanity or resilience fade. Today I was able to go watch Clayton stand up for himself in court and give his victim impact statement. Whatever he may feel about the outcome, I think he has a lot to be proud of. I know I am proud of him. And have much love and respect for him.
While I won’t pretend to know how things will go from here for Laura Owens, I hope this woman who chose to target him is able to turn her life around. While I don’t feel optimistic that she will change, the world is full of hurt people who take out their pain on others. And more than anything, I want to think we live in a world where that change is possible when being held accountable. I have no more harsh words or insults for Laura. Just a sincere hope that she will do better and stop harming others.