Following his detainment by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Des Moines Public Schools superintendent Dr. Ian Roberts had his superintendent’s license revoked by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. The board’s decision, issued on September 28th, cited Roberts’ lack of “legal presence in the United States” as the reason for revoking his license. Roberts was arrested on September 26th during an ICE “targeted enforcement operation” after allegedly fleeing from officers. ICE reports Roberts is a criminal illegal alien from Guyana. Roberts has the option to appeal the decision by October 28, 2025.
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In Des Moines, Iowa, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Des Moines Public School Superintendent Ian Roberts after a traffic stop. ICE stated Roberts was in the country illegally, lacked work authorization, and was subject to a final removal order. Roberts fled from the initial traffic stop and was apprehended with the help of the Iowa State Patrol. At the time of his arrest, Roberts had a loaded handgun, cash, and a hunting knife. The district is gathering information, but officials stated they had no knowledge of the removal order.
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On Friday morning, Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts was detained by immigration agents due to being in the country illegally and having existing weapon possession charges. According to the Department of Homeland Security, Roberts, who had previously been an Olympic athlete, was arrested as part of a targeted enforcement operation and was found with a loaded handgun and cash at the time of his arrest. Roberts entered the US on a student visa in 1999 and was given a final order of removal in May 2024. Despite the DHS’s portrayal of Roberts as a public safety threat, the Des Moines Public Schools community, including the school board, education advocacy groups and his colleagues have rallied behind him, expressing shock and support.
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Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts has been arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and is currently in custody at the Pottawattamie County Jail. The Des Moines School Board Chair announced that Associate Superintendent Matt Smith will serve as interim superintendent. The district officials stated they were unaware of the reason for Roberts’ detainment. Various community members and organizations have expressed shock and concern, and some are seeking answers and action from elected leaders regarding the situation.
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John Q. Hosedrinker