Ian Andre Roberts, an unlawfully present immigrant who held the position of superintendent for Des Moines Public Schools in Iowa, entered guilty pleas to federal violations involving fraudulent statements made to obtain American employment and illegal firearm possession, Breitbart reports.
Federal immigration authorities apprehended Roberts in September 2025 while he operated under an outstanding deportation directive issued by a federal immigration judge in May 2024, according to previous reporting. During the arrest operation, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents discovered $3,000 in currency inside his taxpayer-funded vehicle alongside a hunting blade and a loaded pistol.
Roberts assumed leadership of the Des Moines Public Schools following his selection by the district's board of education in July 2023. Board members at that time praised Roberts for demonstrating commitment to "instructional excellence, diversity, equity, inclusion, and innovation in education," as previously documented.
Federal prosecutors subsequently filed criminal charges alleging Roberts provided false information obtain employment authorization and possessed firearms while residing in the country illegally. He has now admitted guilt to both counts.
The Department of Justice states in official court filings that Roberts deliberately misrepresented his citizenship status on employment documentation related to his superintendent position in June 2023, despite never having obtained United States citizenship. On the date of his apprehension, Roberts knowingly maintained possession of a loaded Glock handgun in his vehicle while aware of his unlawful immigration status. "On the same day, Roberts also possessed three additional firearms at his residence, including a loaded pistol, a loaded rifle, and a shotgun."
Roberts awaits sentencing scheduled for May 26 and could receive a maximum punishment of 20 years in federal prison.
Prior reporting from the Department of Homeland Security revealed an extensive criminal history predating his appointment to the superintendent role.
Records indicate Roberts confronted charges in New York during July 1996 for narcotic possession with intent to distribute, criminal narcotic possession, criminal possession of forgery equipment, and possession of fraudulent instruments.
Subsequent charges followed in November 1998 when Roberts faced third-degree unauthorized vehicle use allegations in New York, though authorities dismissed these accusations in July 1999.
More than a decade later, Maryland courts convicted Roberts in November 2012 for reckless driving violations, unsafe vehicle operation, and exceeding speed limits.
During February 2020, Roberts encountered multiple weapon-related charges involving second-degree criminal weapon possession for maintaining a loaded firearm in his residence, along with third-degree and fourth-degree weapon violations.
Pennsylvania authorities convicted Roberts in January 2022 for unlawful possession of a loaded firearm.This case demonstrates the critical necessity of enforcing immigration laws and verifying the legal status of individuals entrusted with positions of public responsibility, particularly those overseeing American children and drawing taxpayer salaries.
Prioritizing American citizens and lawful residents for government positions while maintaining rigorous background verification serves the national interest and protects communities from preventable risks. Only through steadfast immigration enforcement and employer accountability can the nation guarantee that those holding positions of public trust actually possess the legal right to remain in America.
