FORT COLLINS, Colo. -- A Colorado couple who reported their son was aboard a runaway balloon could land in jail after pleading guilty Friday to charges they made up the story to generate publicity for a possible reality TV show.
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.
The Heenes are amateur storm chasers and had twice appeared on ABC's "Wife Swap." Richard Heene's business associates said he was trying to pitch a TV series based on science, and the couple had a tentative deal in the works with RDF USA, which produces "Wife Swap."
RDF has said it scrapped the plans after the balloon flight.
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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.
