Head of School District Arrested for Avoiding Deportation, Found With Handgun After Chase

The superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools was arrested after federal agents discovered he was in the country illegally with a deportation order — and in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash and a hunting knife, authorities said.

Ian Andre Roberts, originally from Guyana, was taken into custody on Friday during a targeted enforcement operation, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in Des Moines.

“ICE Des Moines today arrested Ian Andre Roberts, a criminal illegal alien from Guyana in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash and a fixed blade hunting knife,” the agency said.

“At the time of his arrest Roberts was working as the Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools despite being an illegal alien with a final order of removal and no work authorization.”

Agents said Roberts sped off in his vehicle after being approached by officers. His car was later discovered abandoned near a wooded area. (Read more from “Head of School District Arrested for Avoiding Deportation, Found With Handgun After Chase” HERE)