Des Moines Superintendent Ian Roberts Arrested by ICE, Placed on Leave After Citizenship Claim Contradiction
Des Moines Superintendent Ian Roberts was arrested by ICE and placed on paid leave for being in the U.S. illegally, despite passing background checks and claiming U.S. citizenship.
Overview
Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts was arrested by ICE and subsequently placed on paid leave, following a targeted enforcement operation.
Roberts was detained for being in the U.S. illegally, lacking work authorization, and having a final removal order issued by an immigration judge in May 2024.
The Iowa Department of Education confirmed Roberts claimed U.S. citizenship on his administrator license application, despite passing a background check that did not flag citizenship issues.
During his arrest, Roberts attempted to flee, was found with a loaded handgun, $3,000 cash, and a hunting knife, having previously pleaded guilty to a weapon charge in 2022.
The Des Moines School Board appointed Matt Smith as interim superintendent, while Iowa Democrats and a former Michelle Obama aide expressed support for Roberts.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story by emphasizing the community's shock and Roberts' positive contributions as a "well-liked" and "dynamic leader." They highlight the school district's surprise and due diligence, while also providing extensive background on Roberts' personal history, including his Olympic past and immigrant roots, contrasting with ICE's portrayal.
Sources (18)
Center (4)
FAQ
Ian Roberts passed multiple background checks including criminal, credit, and citizenship verifications during his hiring process, and he claimed U.S. citizenship on his administrator licensure application, which led to no flags about his immigration status before his arrest.
Ian Roberts was arrested by ICE because he was in the U.S. illegally without work authorization and had a final removal order from an immigration judge in May 2024. During his arrest, he was found in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a hunting knife, and he attempted to flee from officers.
Ian Roberts has been placed on paid administrative leave by the Des Moines Public Schools following his ICE arrest. The school board appointed Matt Smith as interim superintendent during this period.
Ian Roberts previously pleaded guilty to a weapon charge in 2022 and was found with a loaded handgun and a hunting knife during his arrest, which is significant because it is illegal for those without legal U.S. status to possess firearms and ammunition.
The Iowa Department of Education stated it is reviewing the hiring procedures to ensure work authorization, while Iowa Democrats and a former Michelle Obama aide publicly expressed support for Roberts despite his arrest and charges.
History
This story does not have any previous versions.