Ex-DMPS Superintendent Admits Guilt in Federal Charges
Former Des Moines Superintendent Ian Roberts has pleaded guilty to two federal charges related to his immigration status and unlawful firearm possession. This decision was made during a federal court hearing on January 22. Roberts, who served as superintendent for Iowa’s largest school district, faces sentencing on May 29 and is likely to be deported to Guyana after serving his prison term.
Background on Ian Roberts
Roberts, 55, was hired to lead Des Moines Public Schools in 2023. However, he resigned on September 30, shortly after his arrest. He was reportedly trying to evade U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at the time. Federal officials revealed that Roberts had misrepresented his immigration status during his hiring process. He was arrested due to a previously unreported deportation order from an immigration judge in Texas.
Federal Charges and Plea Agreement
On October 16, Roberts was indicted for possessing a firearm as an illegal alien and providing false information for employment. Prosecutors stated that Roberts possessed four firearms, including a loaded handgun. This handgun was found in his school-owned vehicle after he attempted to flee from ICE agents. He also falsely claimed to be a U.S. citizen when completing his I-9 employment authorization.
Initially denying any wrongdoing, Roberts and his legal team considered various defenses. Ultimately, he opted for a plea deal, in which he admitted guilt to both charges during the January court appearance. His attorney, Alfredo Parrish, expressed disappointment but acknowledged that Roberts wanted to accept responsibility.
Sentencing and Possible Outcomes
Roberts faces a maximum sentence of five years for making false statements and 15 years for the gun possession charge. However, he could receive probation instead. Following his prison term, Roberts is also expected to face deportation under the 2024 order from Texas. The plea agreement indicates that he may be subject to immediate removal from the U.S. after completing his sentence.
Impact on Des Moines Public Schools
Roberts’s arrest has created significant upheaval within the school district. There have been calls from legislators for state intervention, and the district is seeking a state audit to evaluate the situation. In response to the plea, the school district has refrained from commenting directly on the matter.
Jackie Norris, the recently retired School Board Chair, commented on the impact of Roberts’s actions. She emphasized the importance of integrity and the need for young people to understand that actions have consequences.
- Name: Ian Roberts
- Charges: Possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, making false statements
- Date of Arrest: September 30, 2023
- Plea Hearing: January 22, 2024
- Sentencing Date: May 29, 2024
- Maximum Sentence: 5 years for false statements, 15 years for firearm possession
- Deportation: Possible after sentencing
As the case unfolds, the implications of Roberts’s actions continue to resonate within the Des Moines community.
