Longtime Iowa City Troublemaker Arrested Again

Gary Leon Duffel charged with criminal mischief after alleged incident at hospital

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A 57-year-old Iowa City transient with a lengthy criminal history has been arrested again, this time for allegedly damaging a glass door at a hospital emergency department by repeatedly banging his head against it after being discharged.

Why it matters

Duffel has been in and out of jail for decades, with a rap sheet that includes a wide range of bizarre and destructive crimes. His latest arrest highlights the ongoing challenges local law enforcement face in dealing with repeat offenders who struggle with mental health and addiction issues.

The details

After being discharged from the University of Iowa Health Care emergency department on Thursday night, Duffel allegedly damaged a glass door by banging his head against it five times. He was taken into custody and charged with 4th degree criminal mischief, which could result in up to a year in jail if convicted.

  • Duffel was arrested on Thursday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Gary Leon Duffel

A 57-year-old Iowa City transient with a lengthy criminal history dating back decades, including charges for stealing, vandalism, and attempted sexual assault.

University of Iowa Health Care

The hospital system where the alleged incident took place, after Duffel was discharged from the emergency department.

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What’s next

If convicted, Duffel could face up to a year in jail for the latest criminal mischief charge.

The takeaway

Duffel's long history of bizarre and destructive behavior highlights the ongoing challenges local authorities face in dealing with repeat offenders who struggle with mental health and addiction issues. This case underscores the need for more comprehensive social services and support systems to address the root causes of such chronic criminal activity.