Radio Host's Alleged Spending Raises 'Serious Questions' About Use of Over $100,000 GoFundMe Donations — After Daughter's Alleged Pregnancy Hoax Against 'Bachelor' Star
Ronn Owens is the father of Laura Owens, who was accused of a pregnancy hoax against Clayton Echard.
Aug. 7 2026, Published 5:45 p.m. ET
After his daughter was charged last year in Maricopa County with 14 felony counts of fraud, perjury, and evidence tampering, Ronn Owens filed for bankruptcy.
In response, the U.S. Trustees questioned his use of GoFundMe donations meant to help his family "navigate this difficult time" amid his alleged "health battles," Breaking Celebrity News has learned.
Bay Area radio legend and Radio Hall of Fame recipient received the donations in 2024 after retiring with Parkinson's disease. The funds were meant to help him "navigate these difficult times," but a court filing from the U.S. Trustee claims he gifted money to his daughter, Laura Owens.
Laura is the alleged perpetrator of a pregnancy hoax against The Bachelor's Clayton Echard.
Ronn Owens' Financial History Exposed
Ronn Owens allegedly spent over $100,000 on non-medical related purchase.
Ronn, who returned from KGO radio station, described a 23-year battle with Parkinson's disease, multiple bouts of cancer, and serious heart issues. Those medical concerns, the GoFundMe claimed, resulted in "proufound challenges.” Fans attempted to "support him” with donations.
The GoFundMe, which is still active as of writing, description says, “For nearly five decades, Ronn Owens was the voice that guided, entertained, and inspired countless listeners on KGO 810. Today, the iconic call letters will be retired. As they fade into history, it marks the end of an era – but Ronn’s legacy continues to resonate deeply in the hearts of those who tuned in day after day for his wit, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to thought-provoking conversation.
"Today, Ronn is facing profound challenges. After living with Parkinson’s disease for 23 years, his health battles have intensified. He has courageously faced not only Parkinson’s but also four bouts with cancer – most recently colon cancer – and serious heart issues. These medical struggles have taken a toll, both physically and financially, on the man who has been a pillar of strength for so many.
“If Ronn’s voice has ever brought you comfort, sparked a meaningful conversation, or simply made you smile, now is the time to show your love and gratitude. This GoFundMe is an opportunity for us to give back to the man who gave us 48 incredible years of radio excellence. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Ronn and his family navigate this difficult time.
“Let’s come together to support a Bay Area legend and remind Ronn that his community stands with him, just as he stood with us all those years. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and for keeping the spirit of KGO and Ronn Owens alive in your heart.”
However, when the 80-year-old and his wife filed for bankruptcy, their actual spending was revealed. According to court documents obtained by Radar, the couple allegedly spent $61,654.75 in mortgage payments and $44,375 in capital contributions to their LLCs over 18 months.
The total spend on healthcare and pharmacy-related expenses was allegedly only $17,209 over that period, as revealed through eight reviewed bank accounts.
Ronn allegedly spent money in additional non-medical areas, too, including consumer credit card payments, transfers to adult family members, and retail and online shopping.
In the court filing from the U.S. Trustees, which requested the judge dismiss the bankruptcy request, they noted, "those facts raise a serious question about whether donors received what they were promised, but it is not a question UST can answer here."
The government did not bring charges against Ronn or his wife. They have not been formally accused of fraud in a civil or criminal court.
However, the Trustees further advised, "the donors and GoFundMe, Inc. are the parties with standing to pursue whatever legal remedies exist as to the solicitation and application of donated funds, in a form outside of bankruptcy."
According to the UST, "the GoFundMe funds have been fully expended, and the accounts carry nominal balances." If a Chapter 7 were granted, it would require a Trustee to carry out “multiple preference actions by an estate that lacks unencumbered assets to fund such lawsuit.”
Ultimately, the court did dismiss the bankruptcy.
Cash Gifts Allegedly Sent to Daughter Laura Owens
Ronn Owens allegedly sent his daughter, Laura, nearly $20,000.
According to the United States Trustee in the District of Arizona, Ronn and his wife twice "stated under oath" that there were no gifts over $600 per person within two years before the petition date of the bankruptcy.
However, the financial document "discloses $19,608 in gifts to daughter Laura Owens."
They added, "Collection from Laura Owens is already called into question by the fact that Laura Owens recently filed her own Chapter 7 filing in this Court, which was ultimately dismissed."
Laura Owens' Alleged Fraud and Criminal Summons
Laura Owens is set to stand trial later this year.
Laura's recent legal woes are currently under dispute. Maricopa County, Arizona, indicted her "on felony charges related to a false claim of pregnancy involving a second victim," according to a countywide press release.
County attorney Rachel Mitchell alleged, "In 2021, the victim (Clayton Echard) began dating Laura Owens, but after the third date, he decided not to continue the relationship. Owens then claimed to be pregnant by him. MCAO investigators found evidence that Owens falsified documents to bolster this claim."
Clayton Echard's Story Turns Into Podcast
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Clayton Echard shared his story via a podcast from a Cumulus Media competitor.
iHeartRadio, a direct competitor of Cumulus Media, which owns the radio station Ronn worked for, released a podcast alongside Echard, detailing his allegations.
"On paper, he looked like the villain. In reality... he was the one being trapped. One fabricated pregnancy, forged documents, thousands of text messages, court documents, and a group of strangers who refused to let the truth stay buried. Glass Podcasts presents Love Trapped, the full truth behind the Bachelor scandal you thought you knew," advertised Echard and iHeartRadio.
Laura's trial assignment date is scheduled for October 28, 2026, with a settlement conference set for August 28, 2026.
Radar contacted Cumulus Media and Echard for comment.
