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Grandmother Sentenced to Probation for Buying Guns for Underage Grandson
64-year-old Virginia Prescott purchased 3 handguns for her 14-year-old grandson in Iowa
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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A 64-year-old grandmother from Waterloo, Iowa has been sentenced to 5 years of federal probation for purchasing 3 handguns for her 14-year-old grandson. Prescott lied on the purchase forms, claiming she was the actual buyer, when the guns were intended for her underage grandson who was on state probation at the time. The guns were later recovered by law enforcement and one was linked to a shots-fired incident.
Why it matters
This case highlights the dangers of straw purchasing, where an adult illegally buys firearms on behalf of someone who is prohibited from possessing them, such as a minor. It also raises concerns about the ease with which some individuals can obtain guns, even when they have a history of criminal activity or mental health issues.
The details
Between March and August 2024, Virginia Prescott purchased 3 handguns from a licensed firearms dealer in Cedar Falls, Iowa. On the purchase forms, she lied and claimed she was the actual buyer of the guns. However, the firearms were intended for her 14-year-old grandson, who was not old enough to legally purchase or possess them. All 3 guns were later recovered by law enforcement in connection with criminal activity, with one being linked to a shots-fired incident in Waterloo in August 2024. Prescott's grandson was on state probation at the time she bought the guns for him.
- Between March and August 2024, Prescott purchased the 3 handguns.
- On August 3, 2024, one of the guns was linked to a shots-fired incident in Waterloo.
- On October 1, 2024, law enforcement searched Prescott's home after she reported her grandson had threatened her.
- In July 2025, Prescott pleaded guilty to providing a false statement during a firearm purchase.
- On February 4, 2026, Prescott was sentenced to 5 years of federal probation.
The players
Virginia Prescott
A 64-year-old woman from Waterloo, Iowa who purchased 3 handguns for her 14-year-old grandson, lying on the purchase forms.
Prescott's Grandson
A 14-year-old who was on state probation when his grandmother purchased 3 handguns for him.
What’s next
The judge will determine whether to allow Prescott's grandson to be released from state probation in light of this incident.
The takeaway
This case highlights the need for stronger regulations and enforcement around straw purchasing to prevent minors and other prohibited individuals from illegally obtaining firearms, which can lead to tragic consequences for public safety.
