Iowa Man Arrested for Illegal Firearm Purchase Attempt

Courtney Morris faces charges after being caught on video trying to buy a gun despite prior felony convictions.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Iowa City police have arrested 52-year-old Courtney Morris on charges related to his alleged attempt to illegally purchase a firearm from a local sporting goods store. Authorities say Morris, who has two prior felony convictions in Missouri from 2015, was caught on video at the Fin & Feather store on January 6th trying to buy a gun, which would have been an unlawful act due to his criminal history.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing gun laws and preventing prohibited individuals from obtaining firearms, even in states with relatively strict regulations. Illegal firearm purchases can pose serious public safety risks, making this arrest an important step in upholding the law and protecting the community.

The details

According to police, Morris entered the Fin & Feather store on Highway 1 West in Iowa City on the morning of January 6th and was captured on surveillance video attempting to purchase a firearm. However, a background check revealed that Morris had been convicted of two felonies in Missouri in 2015, making him ineligible to legally own or purchase a gun. He was subsequently arrested and booked into the Johnson County Jail.

  • Courtney Morris allegedly tried to purchase a firearm at Fin & Feather on January 6, 2026.
  • Morris was arrested and booked into the Johnson County Jail on February 7, 2026.

The players

Courtney Morris

A 52-year-old man from Indigo Drive who has two prior felony convictions in Missouri from 2015, making him ineligible to purchase a firearm.

Fin & Feather

A sporting goods store located on Highway 1 West in Iowa City where Morris allegedly attempted to illegally purchase a firearm.

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What they’re saying

“We must remain vigilant in enforcing gun laws and preventing prohibited individuals from obtaining firearms, which can pose serious risks to public safety.”

— Chief of Police (Iowa City Press-Citizen)

What’s next

Morris is expected to appear in court in the coming weeks to face charges related to his alleged attempt to illegally purchase a firearm.

The takeaway

This arrest underscores the importance of thorough background checks and strict enforcement of gun laws to keep firearms out of the hands of those with criminal histories, helping to maintain public safety in the community.