Balloon family parents plead guilty

The Colorado parents accused of pulling a spectacular hoax by reporting their son was aboard a runaway balloon have pleaded guilty to charges that could bring some jail time and probation.

Richard Heene pleaded guilty today to a felony charge of attempting to influence a public servant. Mayumi Heene pleaded guilty to a misdemeanour charge of false reporting.

Richard Heene's lawyer, David Lane, said the pleas are part of an agreement to avoid possible deportation of Mayumi Heene to her native Japan should she be convicted in court of greater charges.

Sentencing will be later.