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2h ago

ICE Detains Des Moines Schools Superintendent in Targeted Operation

Officials cite a final deportation order alongside alleged possession of a loaded handgun.

Dr Ian Roberts (1)
Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts speaks during the Standing Up For Public Education Rally at Goodrell Middle School in Des Moines, Iowa, U.S., May 1, 2025. Lily Smith/The Register/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images via REUTERS/File photo
Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Ian Roberts, speaks with students during lunch at North High School, in Des Moines, Iowa, U.S., May 1, 2024. Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register/USA TODAY NETWORK via REUTERS/File photo
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Overview

  • DHS and ICE say Ian Roberts entered on a student visa in 1999, received a final removal order in May 2024, and fled before being taken into custody with help from Iowa State Patrol.
  • Agents allege they recovered a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed-blade knife, and note prior weapons charges dating to 2020.
  • Des Moines Public Schools named Associate Superintendent Matt Smith as interim superintendent, saying the district lacks verified details about the case.
  • ICE’s detainee locator listed Roberts at the Pottawattamie County jail, but jail staff said he was not there, leaving his precise custody location unclear.
  • Authorities say the firearm inquiry is being referred to the ATF, and local educators and community groups expressed concern while seeking more information.