Former Des Moines schools chief Ian Andre Roberts pleads guilty to falsely claiming US citizenship and gun charge
Former Des Moines Public School Superintendent Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges
Former Des Moines Public School Superintendent Ian Andre Roberts recently pleaded guilty to two federal charges, including falsely claiming to be a US citizen. Roberts, originally from Guyana in South America, was the leader of Iowa’s largest school district before his arrest by federal immigration officers in September 2025.
The charges against Roberts also included being an illegal alien in possession of firearms. He admitted to possessing four guns, including a loaded Glock handgun found in his vehicle at the time of his arrest, as well as a rifle, shotgun, and another pistol discovered during a search of his home. All the firearms were transported across state lines, giving federal authorities jurisdiction over the case.
As part of the plea agreement, Roberts agreed to forfeit the weapons and waived any right to challenge the forfeiture. He initially pleaded not guilty but changed his plea, exposing himself to a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison for the two charges. Upon completion of any sentence, Roberts could also face deportation.
The Department of Homeland Security revealed that Roberts has a criminal history involving drug and weapons offenses. Despite this, he completed an employment eligibility verification form in 2023, falsely claiming to be a US citizen. This form was submitted to the district when he was hired, along with a Social Security card and driver’s license for documentation.
Roberts also claimed US citizenship in an application to the state board of educational examiners, which issued him a professional administrator license in the same year. However, he had previously been issued a notice to appear before an immigration judge in 2020 and was subject to a final order of removal in 2024.
District officials expressed their surprise at the immigration-related issues involving Roberts, as they were unaware of his situation. Roberts’ attorney, Alfredo Parrish, stated that his client believed his immigration case had been resolved successfully based on advice from a previous lawyer.
The sentencing date for Roberts has not been set, and prosecutors agreed not to pursue additional charges against him. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate documentation and compliance with immigration laws, particularly in roles involving the education and safety of children.
