Ian Roberts, the former Des Moines schools superintendent accused of being an illegal immigrant and who was found with a gun when he was arrested, signaled he may plead guilty to federal charges against him.
A federal magistrate judge overseeing the case in Iowa issued a notice Thursday setting a change-of-plea hearing for Jan. 22.
Mr. Roberts had pleaded not guilty in October to charges of making a false statement for employment and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
The office of Mr. Roberts’ lawyer, Alfredo Parrish, declined to comment on the development.
Mr. Roberts was arrested in late September, sparking initial outrage from students and teachers in Iowa who demanded U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement “Free Dr. Roberts,” saying his legal status shouldn’t hinder his career as a popular educator.
But Homeland Security said Mr. Roberts had been ordered deported and was defying that ruling.
When ICE officers arrested him, they found a handgun in his vehicle and more weapons at his home.
DHS said he also had a previous conviction for mishandling a firearm, as well as drug and reckless driving offenses on his record.
He also was in the country without permission and was not authorized to work at the time he was hired by Des Moines. Mr. Roberts was four times rejected for a green card, or permanent legal residency.
He was granted a student visa in 2020. His last work authorization expired in 2020.
