Iowa City Man Sentenced to 144 Months in Federal Prison for Firearms Charges

A chilling case of gun violence has left a community shaken, and now the perpetrator is facing the consequences. Chris Lee Gordon, a 34-year-old Iowa City man, has been sentenced to 144 months in federal prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.

According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, on July 3, 2022, Gordon, a two-time convicted felon, possessed a stolen and loaded pistol at an apartment in Iowa City, Iowa. While Gordon slept, a three-year-old child staying at the apartment, got out of bed, found Gordon’s pistol, and fatally shot himself. Gordon, heard the gun shot, got up and saw the injured child, picked up his pistol and ran out of the apartment.

Six weeks later, the pistol used in this fatal shooting was found on a roof of a building, with the serial number scratched off. This is not the first time Gordon has been linked to a firearm, as he was arrested on July 24, 2022, with another firearm, a loaded Polymer 80 nine-millimeter handgun with an extended magazine that was capable of holding up to 32 rounds of ammunition.

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement, stating that this case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities. The case was investigated by the Coralville Police Department and the Division of Criminal Investigation.

Gordon’s sentence marks a significant blow to those who would recklessly endanger the lives of innocent children. As he begins his 12-year term, he will also be required to serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

The horrific events of that fateful night will never be forgotten, and the impact on the community will be felt for years to come. As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our youth and hold those accountable who would put them in harm’s way.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of community-based initiatives to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the first place. As we reflect on the events that led to this sentencing, we must remain vigilant in our pursuit of justice and work towards creating safer neighborhoods for everyone.

Gordon’s case is a sobering reminder of the gravity of gun crime and the need for continued investment in programs aimed at reducing violence and strengthening community relationships. As we move forward, it is our hope that this case will serve as a catalyst for meaningful change and a safer future for all.