Sheriff Rules "Balloon Boy" Saga A Hoax

A Colorado sheriff says it was hoax
when parents reported that their 6-year-old son was in a flying
saucer-like helium balloon hurtling away from their home.
Sheriff Jim Alderden says Richard and Mayumi Heene "put on a
very good show for us, and we bought it."
The sheriff says no charges have been filed yet, and the parents
aren't under arrest. He says he expects to recommend charges of
conspiracy, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, making a
false report to authorities and attempting to influence a public
servant.
Some of the most serious charges each carry a maximum sentence
of six years in prison and a $500,000 fine.
He says all three children knew of the Thursday hoax, but likely
won't face charges because of their ages. The oldest son is 10.