EXCLUSIVE: Balloon Boy Dad Richard Heene Facing Early Release From Prison
Jan. 13 2010, Published 6:51 a.m. ET
Balloon Boy dad Richard Heene could be released six days early from his 30 day jail sentence if he behaves himself while in prison, RadarOnline.com can exclusively reveal.
The notorious wannabe reality TV star began his 30-day stretch at Larimer County Detention Center in Fort Collins, Colorado, on Monday for masterminding the elaborate balloon hoax involving his son Falcon.
And he has almost completed his 72 hours observation period which will see him being released into the general prison population tomorrow.
See Photos And Details Of Heene’s Jail House Home
Lt. Pat McCosh exclusively told RadarOnline.com: “He has two days mandated and could get a further four days as part of our inmate labor force if he behaves himself appropriately.
“His observational process has gone well and the prison staff will meet later today to make a final assessment but it looks like he will enter the general population where he will most likely share a cell with another inmate.
Richard Heene’s ‘Smooth’ First Night In Jail
“Mr Heene will then be able to apply for recreational programs like the other inmates where he can play basketball or play ping-pong.
“In addition he could also choose to take counseling sessions or religious classes – other benefits include television and reading time too.
“So far, there have been no problems since he entered the Detention Center and we have not identified any special needs for Mr Heene.
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VIDEO: Heene Denies Hoax Says “Sheriff Is A Liar”
“If he is respectful and behaves himself everything will go smoothly for him during his stay here.”
Richard Heene, whose flying saucer balloon received national attention when it was thought his six-year-old son was inside, had been sentenced to 30 days in jail and another 60 days on work release program.
Richard's wife Mayumi received four years probation and was sentenced to 20 days in jail.
EXCLUSIVE: Deputies Told To Look Over Heene In Prison
Their son, Falcon, was in their home while his parents told police and others he was missing, leading everyone to think the child was in the runaway balloon.
The husband and wife have already been hit with a $42,000 bill from local, state and federal agencies for their October stunt when they claimed their six-year-old son had crawled into a hot air balloon in their back yard and been whisked away into the sky.