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The US parents who triggered a major alert by claiming their six-year-old son was adrift in a helium balloon are to admit charges, their lawyer says.

Falcon Heene's mother, Mayumi, is to admit false reporting to authorities and his father Richard will admit attempting to influence a public servant.

Falcon's disappearance became a media drama but he was later found at home. Police accused the family of masterminding the 15 October incident as part of a publicity bid.

Rajesh Mirchandani reports.