In brief
A report released by Des Moines Public Schools reveals that the district hired Ian Roberts, an accused fraud, using a potentially inadequate background check and a likely forged educational transcript. The investigation highlights failures by the consulting firm that assisted in the hiring process and raises questions about the district's due diligence.
DES MOINES, Iowa (FlashPoint) — Des Moines Public Schools has released a report citing inadequate background checks during the hiring process of Ian Roberts, its former superintendent, who is currently facing federal indictment. Roberts was charged with falsely claiming U.S. citizenship on official documents, raising concerns about the district's hiring practices and compliance with immigration laws.The district retained the consulting firm JG Consulting to assist in Roberts' appointment. However, an investigation by attorney Melissa Schilling revealed that the background check conducted by the firm failed to adequately vet Roberts—offering only limited information that could have revealed past criminal activity relevant to the approval process.Roberts, who originally hails from Guyana, was arrested by federal agents and subsequently resigned. His trial is set for March. The consulting firm has stated they did not ultimately hold responsibility, asserting that the district had a duty to verify Roberts' immigration and work authorization status. This clash may evolve into a legal dispute as the district prepares to counter claims by JG Consulting.Schilling's investigation noted that Roberts' supposed doctoral degree from Morgan State University was not valid, suggesting the transcript he provided was likely forged—a major discrepancy that was reportedly overlooked during the hiring process. Des Moines Public Schools is currently assessing its next steps to address this troubling oversight.
