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DA wants felony in any plea for NYC parachutists

NEW YORK (AP) — Prosecutors say any potential plea offer to three extreme-skydiving enthusiasts who jumped off the 1 World Trade Center tower would require they admit to a felony.

The Manhattan district attorney’s office said Tuesday it wouldn’t consider a plea to a misdemeanor or lower charge for James Brady, Marko Markovich and Andrew Rossig.

They’ve pleaded not guilty to a felony burglary charge and some misdemeanors.

The burglary charge involves being in a building illegally with an intention to commit another crime — breaking a city law against parachuting from skyscrapers.

Rossig says they acknowledge making the Sept. 30 jump and are willing to accept punishment. But he says a felony record is too severe.

Defense lawyers say the burglary law doesn’t apply to the case. A judge hasn’t yet ruled.

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