Former Superintendent Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges of Immigration Fraud and Firearms Possession
A former superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district, Ian Andre Roberts, has pleaded guilty to two federal charges related to immigration fraud and illegal possession of firearms, raising troubling questions about background checks in educational institutions. This unprecedented case highlights significant gaps in the system that allowed Roberts, a native of Guyana, to lead Des Moines Public Schools despite his illegal immigration status.
Why It Matters
The implications of this case extend beyond Roberts himself, as it underscores the accountability of public institutions in safeguarding the welfare of students. The fact that someone with a criminal history could hold a position of authority amidst children has sparked widespread concerns over the vetting processes for educators and administrative personnel.
Key Developments
- Ian Andre Roberts admitted to illegally possessing four firearms, including a loaded Glock handgun found in his vehicle at the time of his arrest.
- Roberts was taken into custody by federal immigration officials on September 26, 2025, shortly after resigning from his position.
- Under his plea agreement, Roberts agreed to forfeit all firearms and acknowledged that these weapons crossed state lines, thus involving federal jurisdiction.
- Initially pleading not guilty, Roberts now faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and could be deported after serving his sentence.
- Roberts’s history includes an extensive criminal record that contains drug and weapons offenses, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Full Report
Arrest and Charges
Ian Andre Roberts, who had been serving as the superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, was arrested on multiple federal charges, including misrepresentation of U.S. citizenship on employment forms. Court documents reveal that Roberts falsely claimed to be a U.S. citizen in an I-9 employment eligibility verification form submitted when he was hired in 2023. He provided a Social Security card and a driver’s license as part of this misrepresentation.
Following a federal grand jury investigation, Roberts was indicted in October. His criminal history includes drug trafficking and other weapons-related charges, leading to significant scrutiny regarding his ability to work in an educational environment.
Timeline of Events
- Roberts received a notice to appear before an immigration judge in October 2020 and was subject to a removal order in 2024. Officials in the Des Moines school district stated they were not aware of any immigration issues related to Roberts.
- After his arrest, Roberts’s legal counsel claimed he believed his immigration matters had been resolved based on prior legal advice.
Responses
The case has drawn stark reactions, particularly from the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized the situation, stating that it was unacceptable for an individual with Roberts’s background to have access to students. The department is focusing on the need for stringent background checks for anyone working in educational settings.
Context & Previous Events
Roberts led the Des Moines Public Schools after receiving his professional administrator license from the state board of educational examiners in 2023, a year marred by procedural gaps in monitoring employment eligibility. Following his arrest, he resigned, sparking calls for an investigation into the vetting processes that allowed him to attain such a prominent role in the educational system.
