Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts was detained by ICE on Friday, accused of being in the U.S. illegally with a final order of removal. ICE stated Roberts fled an initial encounter, was later apprehended with a loaded handgun, knife, and cash. He entered the U.S. on a student visa in 1999 and received a removal order in May 2024, with prior weapon charges. School officials expressed surprise and uncertainty about his future with the district.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.