Des Moines Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts Arrested by ICE on Weapons and Immigration Violations
DES MOINES, Iowa — Ian Andre Roberts, the Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools and a former Olympian, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on September 26, 2025, on multiple charges including illegal possession of a loaded handgun, carrying a fixed blade hunting knife, and violations related to his immigration status.
The 49-year-old Roberts, originally from Guyana, has been residing in the United States since 1999, entering on a student visa. However, in May 2024, an immigration judge issued a final order of removal against him, rendering his presence in the U.S. unauthorized. Despite this, he remained employed as the Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools without valid work authorization.
According to ICE officials, Roberts was encountered during a targeted law enforcement operation when they identified and approached him in his vehicle. Upon seeing officers, Roberts fled the scene by speeding away, abandoning his vehicle near a wooded area. Assistance from the Iowa State Patrol led to his apprehension by ICE agents.
At the time of arrest, Roberts was found in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed blade hunting knife. Notably, federal law prohibits individuals in the U.S. without legal status from possessing firearms or ammunition. Roberts also faces existing weapons charges dating back to February 5, 2020.
In a statement, Sam Olson, Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations for the St. Paul Field Office, remarked, “This suspect was arrested in possession of a loaded weapon in a vehicle provided by Des Moines Public Schools after fleeing federal law enforcement. How this illegal alien was hired without work authorization, after a final order of removal and a prior weapons charge, is beyond comprehension and should alarm the parents of that school district.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has taken over the investigation into how Roberts obtained the firearm.
This incident raises serious questions about employment verification and public safety protocols within the Des Moines Public Schools system, which entrusted Roberts with leadership despite his immigration and legal history. It also underscores ongoing challenges surrounding immigration enforcement and illegal firearm possession.
Authorities encourage the public to report any immigration-related crimes or suspicious activities to the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or through their online tip form.
Update: Further developments on this case are expected as investigations continue.