Ex-Superintendent of Iowa’s Largest School District Faces Legal Challenges
The Des Moines public school district’s former superintendent, Ian Roberts, has admitted to serious charges including falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and illegal firearm possession. These charges might result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Originally from Guyana, South America, Roberts initially denied the charges but later changed his plea to guilty. He acknowledged that this decision could affect his immigration status, potentially leading to deportation after serving his sentence.
Roberts, who led the Des Moines public school district for two years, was arrested by federal immigration officers shortly after the school year began. This arrest brought attention to his criminal history and questionable qualifications.
During the court proceedings, Roberts confirmed his understanding of the plea deal, affirming his signature on the agreement. “It is my signature, your honor,” he stated, acknowledging the decision to plead guilty was his own.
The plea agreement includes a commitment from the prosecutors not to pursue further charges related to these incidents. Sentencing is expected to be influenced by recommendations for leniency, though the final decision rests with U.S. District Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger at a hearing scheduled for May 29.
Roberts’ lawyer, Alfredo Parrish, commented on the plea, noting Roberts’ intent to take responsibility. Parrish also mentioned the emotional weight of the moment, describing it as “not one of the happiest” of his career.
Roberts was apprehended during a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation. Following an attempted escape, authorities discovered his abandoned vehicle containing a loaded handgun and cash. He later confessed to lying about his citizenship on an I-9 form, which is part of employment eligibility verification, facing up to five years in prison for this offense.
In addition to the handgun found in the vehicle, other firearms were seized from Roberts’ home. The plea agreement includes forfeiture of these weapons, and the firearms charge could lead to a 15-year sentence.
Roberts had previously submitted documents such as a Social Security card and driver’s license when hired in 2023, falsely asserting U.S. citizenship in his employment and licensure applications.
The Des Moines Public Schools spokesperson, Phil Roeder, withheld comments on the legal case, emphasizing the district’s focus on student education.
Roberts’ immigration issues date back to a notice to appear before an immigration judge in October 2020 and a final removal order in 2024, unbeknownst to district officials. Parrish argued that his client believed his immigration status was resolved based on prior legal advice.
Defense strategies discussed included dismissing the firearms charge, referencing ongoing legal debates on Second Amendment rights. Parrish highlighted past threats made against Roberts in his role as superintendent as a potential defense argument.
Parrish emphasized the significance of the upcoming sentencing hearing, where he plans to present factors that could influence the court’s decision.
