A grand jury has formally charged a Waianae couple accused of torturing their teenage son, a serious case that could put both away for life.

• Jasmine Key Rose Pele, 35, was indicted on two counts of torture and one count of kidnapping.
• James Heffernan, 36, was indicted on one count of kidnapping and one count of being an accomplice to torture.
• A conviction on these charges alone carries up to 20 years in prison.
• Honolulu prosecutors say both qualify as repeat offenders, which opens the door to a life sentence.

Outlook: Prosecutors will push for extended terms, meaning both could face life in prison if convicted.