Balloon Boy Story Took Off (Minus Boy) 1 Yr. Ago

It's been a year since the world watched a runaway silver balloon flying over Colorado, fearing for the little boy thought to be inside.

On Oct. 15, 2009, Richard and Mayumi Heene reported that their 6-year-old son Falcon had floated away in a UFO-shaped balloon, touching off a furious chase.

The balloon's flight and the chase were broadcast live, taking viewers on an emotional rollercoaster.

Falcon wasn't found inside the balloon when it finally landed, raising fears that he had fallen out. He turned up later that day hiding in the family's garage in Fort Collins.

Authorities accused the Heenes of staging a hoax to promote possible reality TV shows and both parents served time in jail.

Last month, the family moved to Bradenton, Fla., where Richard Heene will continue working in construction.

Richard Heene pleaded guilty to a felony count of attempting to influence a public servant and served a 30-day jail term. Mayumi Heene pleaded guilty to filing a false report and served a 20-day jail term.

Larimer County and state officials say the Heenes' probation was been transferred to Florida. The terms of their probation include making regular monthly payments toward $48,000 in restitution.

The Heenes' attorneys had argued the couple should pay only a small amount in compensation. Richard Heene's attorney, David Lane, said in January that it appeared authorities wanted to make money on the episode.

Prosecutors reduced the amount sought, agreeing to drop the sheriff's request for investigative costs. Damage to a farmer's wheat crop where the balloon landed hasn't been calculated.