Six-year-old blurts out during a TV interview that his family pretended he was carried off in a hot air balloon in order to gain publicity
Six-year-old blurts out during a TV interview that his family pretended he was carried off in a hot air balloon in order to gain publicity
ADVERTISEMENT
 |
|
Hot air: Falcon Keene was hiding in the attic the whole time he was thought to be aboard the hot-air balloon. pic/afp |
Police revealed that Richard and Mayumi Heene pretended young Falcon was in the balloon because they hoped the publicity would turn them into stars.
Sheriff Jim Alderden said, "It has been determined that this is a hoax, that it was a publicity stunt. We believe we have evidence to indicate this was a publicity stunt in hopes to better market themselves for a reality show."
Sheriff Alderden added, "On the bizarre meter this rates a 10." Richard and Mayumi, who have three children, face criminal charges. They will voluntarily surrender to authorities as soon as charges are filed, according to their lawyer.
Millions of viewers watched the drama unfold on Thursday after the silver flying saucershaped balloon became detached from its mooring in the Heenes' garden, apparently with Falcon on board.
Safe at home
The seemingly frantic parents raised the alarm and cameras followed the balloon as it floated across the skies of Colorado. But when it finally landed it was found to be empty.
Falcon was discovered in the attic of his home, where his mum and dad claimed he hid without them knowing.
Richard denied accusations of a publicity stunt. He and his wife face charges of conspiracy, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and filing a false report.
"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels 
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
