Shitty Balloon Parents Of Shitty Balloon Boy Get $42,000 Fine For Shitty Balloon Hoax
Dec 22, 2009 3 Comments ›› Erik Wong
US parents who triggered a major alert by claiming their son was adrift in a helium balloon have been ordered to pay the $42,000 (£26,000) rescue bill.
The Colorado couple reported in October that their young son had been carried away by the balloon – whose progress was then tracked by news organizations.
Six-year-old Falcon Heene’s disappearance became a media drama, but he was found hiding afterward at home.
It later emerged the hoax was an attempt to secure a TV deal.
Their lawyer, David Lane, said Richard Heene and his wife Mayumi have now been ordered to pay restitution for the emergency services’ rescue efforts.
‘Cannot afford bill’
Millions of television viewers were gripped by live coverage of the drifting weather balloon which was feared to have Falcon on board.
Falcon’s parents have pleaded guilty to a number of charges and face a sentencing hearing on Wednesday.
Richard Heene has admitted attempting to influence a public servant. Mayumi Heene admits false reporting to the authorities.
Although the charges are punishable by jail terms, it is expected they will receive probation orders.
Mr Lane said the Heenes cannot afford to pay the $42,000 bill.
Police carried out an intensive search for the boy after the balloon landed about 64km (40 miles) north of Denver and was found to be empty.
But it then transpired that the child was hiding at home and days later the couple were accused of the elaborate hoax – apparently an attempt to secure a deal for a reality TV show.
