Ian Roberts: Why was Des Moines superintendent arrested? Inside details of the incident

Des Moines Public Schools is facing sudden upheaval after its superintendent, Dr. Ian Andre Roberts, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Friday, Sept. 26. Federal authorities allege that Roberts, 54, has been living in the country without legal authorization and was subject to a deportation order earlier this year.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, Roberts attempted to flee when federal agents approached his vehicle during a “targeted enforcement operation.” His car was later found abandoned in a wooded area with a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a hunting knife inside. He was eventually located by officers with the help of a K-9 unit.

A DHS spokesperson confirmed that a federal immigration court issued a final removal order against Roberts in May 2024. Officials also cited unresolved weapons-related charges from 2020, though records of those cases remain unclear.

At a press briefing Friday afternoon, School Board Chair Jackie Norris described the arrest as shocking.
“We do not yet know the full scope of the situation,” she said. “What we do know is that Dr. Roberts has been an integral leader in our district since his arrival.”

The district named Associate Superintendent Matt Smith as interim superintendent. Smith previously stepped in as acting head during the 2022–23 school year.

From Olympian to Educator

Roberts’ personal and professional journey has been marked by high achievement and deep community involvement. Born in Guyana and raised in Brooklyn, New York, he represented Guyana in middle-distance running at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games before embarking on a career in education.

He has held leadership roles in school systems across New York, Maryland, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and California before being hired in 2023 to lead Iowa’s largest district. His appointment followed a nationwide search and was celebrated as a step toward strengthening equity and student achievement in Des Moines.

Roberts’ biography on the district’s website highlights his passion for education, his immigrant roots, and even his personal hobbies, including hunting—a detail that now draws added scrutiny in light of DHS’ claims about the weapon found in his vehicle.

Federal Allegations and Community Response

Federal officials have cast Roberts’ case as a public safety issue. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Director Sam Olson described him as a “criminal illegal alien” and questioned how he was able to lead the district despite lacking work authorization and having unresolved legal issues.

“It should alarm parents that someone with a final deportation order and prior weapons charges could be entrusted with such a critical role,” Olson said.

Community members, however, expressed shock and dismay at the sudden turn of events. The Directors Council, a nonprofit serving Des Moines’ Black community where Roberts served on the board, released a statement praising his leadership.
“Dr. Roberts has been a dedicated partner, an advocate for equity, and an unwavering supporter of families and youth in Polk County. His contributions have been immeasurable, and we stand with him during this uncertain time,” the group wrote.

What Comes Next

Roberts is currently in federal custody, initially listed at the Pottawattamie County Jail in Council Bluffs, near Omaha’s immigration court. ICE records show he first entered the United States on a student visa in 1999 and that his legal work authorization expired in 2020.

It remains unclear how his immigration case will proceed or how long he will remain in custody. For now, the district has emphasized stability, with interim superintendent Smith pledging to carry forward the mission of serving students.

“In Dr. Roberts’ own words, ‘If you paddle together, you will survive the tide. If you paddle alone, you will likely drown,’” Smith told staff and families. “In this moment, we choose to paddle together.”

FAQ

Who is Ian Roberts?
Ian Roberts is the superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools and a former Olympic athlete who represented Guyana in the 2000 Sydney Games before building a career in education across the U.S.

Why was Ian Roberts arrested?
Roberts was detained by ICE after federal officials said he had a final deportation order issued in May 2024. He is also accused of possessing a handgun, cash, and a knife while attempting to flee authorities.

What immigration issues does Roberts face?
Roberts originally entered the U.S. on a student visa in 1999, but officials say his work authorization expired in 2020. An immigration judge later ordered his removal.

What position did Roberts hold in Iowa?
Roberts has served as superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools since July 2023, overseeing Iowa’s largest school district.

Who is leading the district now?
Following Roberts’ detention, Associate Superintendent Matt Smith was named interim superintendent until further notice.

What has been the community reaction?
While federal authorities labeled Roberts a “public safety threat,” local organizations such as the Directors Council praised his leadership and advocacy for equity.