Balloon Boy Hoax Dad Richard Heene Pleads Guilty to Felony Count of falsely influencing an Official … Could Get Jail Time

Justice is served for the “Balloon Boy” hoax perpetrated by the Colorado couple Richard and Mayumi  Heene. They wanted to be noticed, they wanted to be famous … well they got the bonus plan baby!  Richard Heene pleaded guilty to a felony count of falsely influencing the sheriff, while Mayumi Heene pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of filing a false report.

Richard and Mayumi Heene plead guilty in balloon boy, tin foil hat hoax

Richard Heene appeared before a Larimer County District Court judge first, pleading guilty to a felony count of falsely influencing the sheriff who led the rescue effort during the 50-mile balloon chase that captivated a global television audience Oct. 15.

Mayumi Heene pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of knowingly filing a false report with emergency services. Prosecutors said she had a lower level of culpability and cooperated with authorities, telling investigators the balloon launch was a publicity stunt two weeks in the making.

But even as the Heenes entered their guilty pleas, their attorneys’ comments in court set off speculation of talk show appearances or other deals.

The question remains as to whether Richard Heene will actually serve jail time. Once thing is for certain, because of this terrible and shameful stunt for attention, there is probably no Reality TV show in their future. no one would be stupid enough to tough this toxic situation.

The plea deal terms are as follows; however, with out such a deal and the potential of going to trail, if found guilty of a felony Mayumi Heene could have bee deported. Mayumi Heene is a Japanese citizen who could be deported by being convicted of more serious charges.

Under terms of the plea agreements, Richard Heene faces up to 90 days in jail, probation and a fine. Mayumi Heene could get 60 days, likely to be served in a work-release program, and probation.

Richard Heene also could have to pay restitution for tens of thousands of dollars in costs incurred by police.

Without the deal, the charge against Richard Heene carries a possible sentence of two to six years in state prison and a fine of up to $500,000. The charge against his wife is punishable by up to six months in the county jail and a fine up to $750.