ICE Arrests Leader of Iowa's Largest School District

On Friday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested a Guyanese national who has been serving as the Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. Ian Andre Roberts was found to be in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed blade hunting knife.

Officers approached Roberts in his vehicle and after identifying themselves as immigration enforcement agents, he allegedly sped away. His vehicle was later discovered abandoned near a wooded area. Roberts was taken into custody after Iowa State Patrol assisted in locating him.

Roberts entered the US on a student visa in 1999, ICE said in a press release. He had weapon possession charges from February 5, 2020. An immigration judge issued a final order of removal in May of 2024.

ICE ERO St. Paul Field Office Director Sam Olson said, "This suspect was arrested in possession of a loaded weapon in a vehicle provided by Des Moines Public Schools after fleeing federal law enforcement. This should be a wake-up call for our communities to the great work that our officers are doing every day to remove public safety threats. How this illegal alien was hired without work authorization, a final order of removal, and a prior weapons charge is beyond comprehension and should alarm the parents of that school district."

Des Moines School Board Chair Jackie Norris said in a statement on Friday afternoon, "Pursuant to the Board-approved DMPS leadership succession plan, Matt Smith, Associate Superintendent, will immediately step into the role of Interim Superintendent until further notice. This action follows Dr. Ian Roberts being detained by Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents this morning. We have no confirmed information as to why Dr. Roberts is being detained or the next potential steps."

"Our priority is to provide a safe, secure and outstanding education for all students and to support our students, families, and employees. The appointment of Mr. Smith as Interim Superintendent ensures that our District continues to operate at the highest level."

The Iowa State Education Association and Des Moines Education Association said in a joint statement, "We were shocked to hear of Dr. Ian Roberts's detainment by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents early this morning. Since being hired as superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, we have known Dr. Roberts to be a tremendous advocate for students, families, staff, and the community. His leadership and compassion for all students, regardless of background, identity, or family origin, are a beacon of light in one of the state's most diverse school districts."

"It is a dark and unsettling time in our country. This incident has created tremendous fear for DMPS students, families, and staff. We call on the community to come together and support each other."