Paternity Fraud is a Widespread Crime That Needs to be Vigorously Prosecuted

PRESS RELEASE

Contact: Henry Herrera
Telephone: +1-301-801-0608
Email: info@prosecutorintegrity.org

Paternity Fraud is a Widespread Crime That Needs to be Vigorously Prosecuted

May 22, 2025 – Laura Owens, the daughter of Bay Area radio legend Ronn Owens, recently was indicted in Arizona on multiple felony charges related to paternity fraud involving former “The Bachelor” star Clayton Echard. (1) A recent article highlights the widespread nature of paternity fraud, emphasizing its serious consequences for men, children, and families across the United States and the United Kingdom. (2)

Paternity fraud, the deliberate misidentification of a child’s biological father, often leads to men being unjustly compelled to provide financial and emotional support under false pretenses. Children, in turn, are deprived of accurate medical histories and genetic truths, leading to profound psychological harm. DNA testing companies have noted the frequency of such cases, with staff training now including protocols to support customers facing unexpected and distressing results. (3)

The issue is further exemplified by recent legal cases. In one instance, a woman was convicted of forging paternity test results to deceive her ex-partner into believing he was the father of her child. The deception included falsified documents and manipulated images, resulting in significant emotional distress for the victim. (4)

Studies indicate that the prevalence of paternity fraud is substantial. One study, which published a rate near 30%, was performed on populations in which the purported father already suspected that he was not the genetic parent, rather than on a fully random population. (5) In studies that solely looked at couples who obtained paternity testing because paternity was being disputed, there are higher levels: an incidence of 17% to 33% (median of 26.9%). (6)

Victims of paternity fraud often report profound shock, feelings of betrayal, and emotional distress. These reactions can include anger, sadness, depression, anxiety, and a disrupted sense of security and well-being. The revelation of paternity fraud can also trigger an identity crisis, leading individuals to question their familial role and personal identity. (7)

To address this growing problem, states and legal systems must act. DNA testing could be incorporated into the routine panel of newborn medical screenings. Premarital agreements should include provisions for paternity verification. Laws must be updated to classify intentional paternity deception as a punishable offense.

Failure to act undermines the integrity of family law, violates the rights of both men and children, and erodes public trust in justice. Lawmakers and prosecutors must act now to end the impunity surrounding paternity fraud.

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