Former Iowa School Superintendent Pleads Guilty to False US Citizenship Claim
The former superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district faced significant legal consequences after pleading guilty to multiple charges. Ian Roberts, who originated from Guyana, admitted to falsely claiming U.S. citizenship on a federal employment form and illegally possessing firearms.
Key Facts about Ian Roberts’ Case
- Name: Ian Roberts
- Location: Des Moines, Iowa
- Role: Former Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools
- Charges: False claim of U.S. citizenship, illegal possession of firearms
- Maximum Sentence: 20 years in prison
- Plea Date: Guilty plea made on a Thursday (exact date unspecified)
- Initial Plea: Not guilty
- Trial Date: Scheduled for early March (specific date unspecified)
- Victims: Approximately 30,000 students in the school district
Details of the Admission and Sentencing
During the court proceedings, Roberts was visibly restrained with shackles and addressed U.S. Magistrate Judge Helen C. Adams courteously. He confirmed his understanding of his rights and the details of his plea agreement, which he signed willingly.
Roberts acknowledged that his guilty pleas could negatively impact his immigration status, potentially leading to immediate deportation after serving his sentence. His arrest on September 26 drew considerable attention, particularly concerning his previous criminal history and the nature of his employment qualifications.
Plea Agreement Highlights
As part of the plea deal, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa agreed to refrain from pursuing additional charges against Roberts. They may also recommend leniency in sentencing, which ultimately rests with the judge.
Roberts’ legal representative, attorney Alfredo Parrish, remarked that Roberts sought to take responsibility for his actions, though acknowledging it was not a high point in his legal career.
Background and Evidence
Roberts was apprehended during a targeted operation by immigration authorities while driving a school-issued Jeep Cherokee. Initially fleeing from agents, he was later found with a loaded handgun under the car seat and a significant amount of cash. Authorities discovered additional firearms at his residence, such as a second handgun, a rifle, and a shotgun, leading to further legal complications.
Roberts had submitted the Employment Eligibility Verification form (I-9) in 2023, falsely stating he was a U.S. citizen. This violation carries a potential five-year prison sentence, while the weapons charge could result in up to 15 years.
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
The sentencing hearing for Ian Roberts is set for May 29, where various factors impacting the decision will be discussed. Parrish intends to address possible defenses, including previous legal advice Roberts received concerning his immigration case and the context of his firearm possession.
Phil Roeder, a spokesperson for Des Moines Public Schools, declined to comment on Roberts’ ongoing legal issues, emphasizing that the district’s primary focus remains on its educational mission.
