Former Iowa Superintendent to Plead Guilty for Falsifying Citizenship

Thu Jan 22 2026 23:31:14 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Ian Roberts, the former superintendent of Iowa's largest school district, is set to enter a guilty plea in federal court for falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and possession of a firearm while in the country illegally.

Ian Roberts, once a celebrated leader in education and a former athlete from Guyana, faces serious legal troubles including a plea agreement expected in federal court. Charged with falsely asserting U.S. citizenship and illegal firearm possession, he could face up to 20 years in prison. Roberts's arrest stunned a community that knew him as an inspiring figure. This incident may lead to increased deportation risks as well.

DES MOINES, Iowa — Ian Roberts, the former superintendent of Iowa's largest school district, is expected to plead guilty in federal court to two charges, including falsely claiming to be a U.S. citizen. This serious accusation could lead to a lengthy prison sentence and increase deportation risks for Roberts, a native of Guyana.

Roberts, who was an Olympic runner and an influential figure in education for over 20 years, was the leader of the Des Moines public school district, which services approximately 30,000 students. His recent detainment by federal immigration officers has drawn widespread attention, highlighting a complex background marked by previous criminal charges and allegedly falsified credentials.

Just weeks into the current school year, Roberts was arrested on September 26. Authorities stated that a loaded firearm was found hidden in his vehicle, along with $3,000 in cash. Following his initial not guilty pleas last month to charges related to his employment and possession of a firearm while being in the country illegally, Roberts is now expected to accept a plea agreement by admitting to both charges, potentially facing up to 20 years in prison.

The plea agreement also hints at the likelihood of deportation following his prison sentence, marking a tumultuous fall for an individual who was once praised for his contributions to education. Roberts previously faced a federal grand jury indictment for submitting falsified information on his Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) form. He had claimed U.S. citizenship by providing a Social Security card and driver’s license as proof, despite lacking proper authorization.

Roberts is also charged with unlawfully possessing multiple firearms, further complicating his legal standing. As part of his plea agreement, he will forfeit the weapons found in his possession.

Prosecutors agreed to recommend leniency in his sentencing as long as Roberts complies with the agreement, although the ultimate decision lies with the judge. His case highlights the intersections of immigration issues and professional integrity, especially in educational leadership.