Cedar Rapids Felon Sentenced for 100 MPH Chase While Armed

31-year-old David Abrams Jr. pleaded guilty to firearm and eluding charges after a high-speed pursuit last June.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A Cedar Rapids man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase last June while illegally possessing a firearm. 31-year-old David Abrams Jr. pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm as a felon and two counts of eluding while exceeding the speed limit by 25 mph.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of high-speed pursuits and the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with repeat offenders who are illegally in possession of firearms. It also raises questions about sentencing guidelines and whether tougher penalties could deter such reckless behavior.

The details

On June 13, 2025, a deputy stopped Abrams' vehicle for speeding on Highway 30 near I-380 around 9:41 p.m. When the deputy approached, Abrams suddenly drove away, fleeing westbound on Highway 30 at speeds over 100 mph. Another deputy used a tire deflation device near Edgewood Road, causing Abrams to exit onto Williams Boulevard before being pulled over near Dean Road SW. Abrams tried to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended, and investigators found a gun under the front seat of his car.

  • On June 13, 2025, Abrams led police on a high-speed chase.
  • Abrams was sentenced on February 13, 2026.

The players

David Abrams Jr.

A 31-year-old Cedar Rapids man who pleaded guilty to firearm and eluding charges after a high-speed pursuit.

Linn County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that pursued and apprehended Abrams after he fled from a traffic stop.

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What’s next

The judge's sentencing decision will be closely watched to see if it deters similar high-speed pursuits and illegal firearm possession by repeat offenders in the Cedar Rapids area.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for comprehensive criminal justice reform to address the root causes of repeat offenses, illegal gun violence, and the dangers posed by high-speed chases in residential areas.