DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa’s largest school district has placed Superintendent Ian Roberts on administrative leave after federal immigration agents arrested him. This decision came swiftly, with the school board voting unanimously at a brief meeting.
Board president Jackie Norris expressed that the news was shocking and highlighted the need for more information. The board noted that Roberts was unable to fulfill his duties for the district, which serves around 30,000 students. They will evaluate his status as more details arise.
Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took action against Roberts, claiming he was illegally in the country and lacked authorization to work. The arrest occurred while he was driving a school vehicle. Authorities stated that he briefly fled but was apprehended with help from Iowa State Patrol officers.
Roberts is currently held at Woodbury County Jail, located about 150 miles from Des Moines.
Norris clarified that the district was unaware of any immigration issues regarding Roberts. She stressed that the allegations are serious and will be treated accordingly. Roberts has hired a Des Moines law firm for representation, though no comments have been made about the case.
Prior to his hiring, Roberts underwent a background check that revealed no issues regarding his citizenship. He had also signed a document confirming his U.S. citizenship. The Iowa Department of Education stated that when Roberts applied for his administrator license, he claimed to be a U.S. citizen. His application process included thorough checks by state and federal authorities.
Interestingly, Roberts immigrated to the U.S. from Guyana, where he had a background in athletics and served in law enforcement. He participated in the 2000 Olympics for track and field representing his home country. Paul Slowe, a retired assistant commissioner of the Guyana Police Force, recalled Roberts as a disciplined individual who could have had a significant career in law enforcement if not for his move to the U.S.
The Iowa Department of Education is reevaluating the district’s hiring protocols to ensure that employees are authorized to work in the U.S. With immigration issues receiving heightened attention in recent years, this incident underscores the complexities surrounding employment and immigration laws.
User reactions on social media show a mix of surprise and concern, with many calling for transparency in the hiring process of public officials. As the case unfolds, it opens discussions about immigration, the qualifications of educators, and the extra layers of scrutiny they face.
For more information on immigration policies and employment regulations, you can refer to ICE for official guidelines.
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Des Moines, Immigration, General news, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Law enforcement, Iowa, AP Top News, IA State Wire, Politics, School boards, Jackie Norris, Paul Slowe, Guyana, U.S. news, Race and ethnicity, Alfredo Parrish, Education, Race and Ethnicity
