Further investigation disclosed that Bowens had tried to use the internet to obtain handguns from other FFL's in both Texas and Florida. When these dealers asked to see Bowens' gun license, he backed off.
In July 2007, Bowens attempted to purchase a .25 caliber semi-automatic pistol through an internet gun broker Web site. The seller, after viewing Bowens FFL, refused to transfer the weapon to him. Bowens then tried a second FFL in the same manner for two handguns but the results were the same as the first.
Ultimately, a licensed gun dealer in Florida did send Bowens a handgun. In December 2007, Bowens was able to obtain a .357 caliber revolver which he is not authorized to obtain on his C&R license. The Florida FFL was interviewed by ATF and subsequently received a second order from Bowens on March 7, 2008. BOWENS sent a postal money order to R.A.K. Trading Corp., in Clearwater, Fla., in the amount of $260 for two handguns, a .380 caliber and 9 millimeter.