The superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, Ian Andre Roberts, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Friday during a targeted enforcement operation. A native of Guyana, Roberts is alleged to be in the country unlawfully and without work authorization. ICE says he is subject to a final removal order issued in May 2024.
Roberts has served as the district’s superintendent since 2023, earning a six‑figure salary. He was stopped by federal officers while driving a district‑issued vehicle and allegedly attempted to flee the scene. After a pursuit, he was apprehended with the assistance of the Iowa State Patrol and booked into Woodbury County Jail. At the time of his arrest, Roberts was found carrying a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed‑blade hunting knife.
Court records reveal that Roberts previously pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing a loaded firearm in a vehicle in Pennsylvania in January 2022. ICE officials have expressed concern about how the district hired him despite his immigration status and prior criminal record. The incident has prompted questions about the district’s hiring practices and the school board’s role in appointing Roberts.
Jackie Norris, the chair of the school board and former chief of staff to Michelle Obama, stated that the district was unaware of any citizenship or immigration issues involving Roberts. The district has placed him on paid administrative leave pending further investigation.
The arrest has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the vetting process for high‑ranking officials in the district. It is likely to have significant implications for Des Moines Public Schools, and the board will face scrutiny over its hiring decisions and the appointment of Roberts as superintendent.
Comments are closed for this story.