Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for allegedly residing unlawfully in the United States. This arrest, which occurred on Friday, September 26, follows a court’s issuance of a “final order of removal” set for May 2024 for Roberts, who is originally from Guyana and a long-standing U.S. resident.
Tricia McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security, stated that Roberts had abandoned his vehicle during a police pursuit. The car, which was discovered abandoned in a wooded area, contained a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a hunting knife, according to federal officials. Roberts reportedly fled from officers who had identified themselves before attempting to stop him. The arrest was characterized by DHS as part of a “targeted enforcement operation.”
School Board Chair Jackie Norris addressed the situation at a news conference, emphasizing the district’s commitment to discovering pertinent details, and announced that Matt Smith, the Associate Superintendent, would act as interim superintendent. She affirmed that the district had not been formally informed by ICE and had not been able to communicate with Roberts following his detention.
Roberts, age 54, began his role as superintendent in July 2023, following a career in education that includes competing as a track and field athlete for Guyana in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. He has been described by DHS as a “criminal illegal alien,” and scrutiny surrounds how he came to be employed without proper authorization given the existing charges and deportation order.
The Des Moines district reassured that a comprehensive background check was conducted on Roberts and no prior knowledge of the deportation order was known to them. The situation has raised significant concern and questions regarding the hiring processes and implications of the federal immigration system, with various public officials and community figures reacting fervently.
The President of the school board expressed that, despite the challenges, the district’s focus remains providing high-quality education and continuing to support its communities. Interim Superintendent Matt Smith reiterated the commitment to service, urging the community to navigate the situation unitedly.
The arrest has attracted responses from political figures and organizations expressing both concern for Roberts’ legal situation and the broader implications on the community. Iowa Senator Mike Bousselot and others have highlighted potential legislative inquiries into the oversight in hiring an individual with such a background into a position of educational leadership.
Community organizations, including The Directors Council, have voiced support for Roberts, emphasizing his role as an advocate for equity and expressing concerns about federal policies’ impacts on local communities, especially on minority populations.
As events develop, the Des Moines Public Schools are focused on maintaining stability and transparency, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and reassured of continued educational excellence while the legal process unfolds.