Published: October 27, 2009 02:34 pm      

Balloon Boy parents should pay

Phil Riddle

editor@weatherforddemocrat.com

More than 90 percent of respondents in this week’s www.weatherforddemocrat.com online poll think the balloon boy and his parents should be held responsible for what is looking more and more like a publicity-seeking hoax by the Colorado family.

Slightly more than 52 percent of the week’s voters said the family should be held accountable for expenses related to the “rescue” efforts, while nearly 42 percent say applicable charges should be filed.

Very few, slightly more than 6 percent, say to just forget about it.

The poll is not scientific in nature and reflects only the opinions of those who voted.

The story of the balloon boy captured the attention of a nation-wide audience when the Fort Collins, Colo., 6-year-old was reported to be inside a run-away balloon reportedly designed and built by the father who wanted his family on a reality TV show.

Fear for the boy’s welfare turned to scorn when the balloon landed, but the boy was discovered in the family home. The alleged plot to use the event for publicity and a better chance of landing the TV series seemed to unravel when the boy told a national broadcast audience, “It was for the show.”

Local residents had a chance to offer their opinions in Friday’s Democrat Talk Back section.

“Some kind of charges should be filed,” said Carrie Carrillo, “And they should pay the fines.”

Natalie Grimshaw agreed.

“Some fines should be paid,” she said. “They shouldn’t get off scot-free. Something should be done to pay back the money wasted.”

There was also concern for the welfare of the boy, as well as his siblings.

“An innocent life could have been lost all for a hoax,” Pete Hawkins said.

“If he had the intent to defraud, he needs to be punished,” said Robert Parten,” especially for using his kids.”

To participate in the online poll, click on www.weatherforddemocrat.com and scroll to the bottom of the page.

“This week’s question — “Who will win the World Series?”