Colorado Family Facing Charges In Balloon Hoax
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Colorado Family Facing Charges In Balloon Hoax...
There were plenty of doubters, but the story of the runaway balloon with a boy trapped inside was tragically compelling anyway. Now, authorities say Thursday's balloon drama really was just a hoax....
There were plenty of doubters, but the story of the runaway balloon with a boy trapped inside was tragically compelling anyway. Now, authorities say Thursday’s balloon drama really was just a hoax. Richard Heene and his wife have not been arrested, but Monday morning, they face a long list of possible charges. ABC News’ Viviana Hurtado has more.
Published: October 19, 2009
Larimer County, CO—The parents accused of planning an elaborate hoax for two weeks could be turning themselves in, according to their attorney.
David Lane, Heene family attorney: “If they have probable cause to make an arrest, make an arrest. All you have to do is get on the phone.“
Authorities say Richard and Mayumi Heene, along with their three boys, fabricated the tale that son Falcon was trapped in the runaway balloon. What followed mesmerized the nation on television, and sent local and federal authorities scrambling to avoid a tragedy. The reason? Investigators point to the family’s quest for a reality show.
Sheriff Jim Alderden, Larimer County, CO: “It was a great success, but these people are facing some serious consequences now.“
Possible charges include:
- Conspiracy
- contributing to the delinquency of a minor
- making a false report to authorities
- attempting to influence a public servant
The family may also be responsible for paying back authorities for the two hour search.
Sheriff Jim Alderden, Larimer County, CO: “They put on a very good show for us and we bought it.“
After the boy was found safe in the attic above the garage, the family went on a media blitz. But soon, the story’s holes were revealed by the boy himself.
Falcon Heene (on CNN/Larry King Live): “We did this for the show.“
Skeptics also pointed to the family’s appearances on ABC’s “Wife Swap” as evidence that this was a publicity stunt.
The family denied these allegations.
Richard Heene, Falcon’s father (Friday, Oct 16 on ABC’s ‘Good Morning America’): “I went through such a rollercoaster of emotions…to have people say that, I think, is extremely pathetic.“
Viviana Hurtado, reporting: “Investigators are also looking into the possibility that others, such as media outlets, may have had knowledge of this hoax.“
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