On September 26, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Des Moines arrested Ian Andre Roberts, a Guyana national who was serving as the Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. At the time of his arrest, Roberts was found with a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed blade hunting knife. According to ICE officials, Roberts had previously received a final order of removal from an immigration judge in May 2024 and did not have work authorization.
The enforcement operation began when officers approached Roberts in his vehicle after identifying themselves. Roberts then fled the scene by speeding away. His vehicle was later discovered abandoned near a wooded area. The Iowa State Patrol assisted ICE officers in locating and apprehending him.
Roberts has prior charges related to weapon possession dating back to February 5, 2020. He originally entered the United States on a student visa in 1999. The investigation into how he obtained the handgun is being referred to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Federal law prohibits individuals without legal status from possessing firearms or ammunition.
“This suspect was arrested in possession of a loaded weapon in a vehicle provided by Des Moines Public Schools after fleeing federal law enforcement,” said ICE ERO St. Paul Field Office Director Sam Olson. “This should be a wake-up call for our communities to the great work that our officers are doing every day to remove public safety threats. How this illegal alien was hired without work authorization, a final order of removal, and a prior weapons charge is beyond comprehension and should alarm the parents of that school district.”
ICE expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the Iowa State Patrol during the arrest operation.
Members of the public are encouraged to report immigration crimes or suspicious activity through the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or via an online tip form.
