DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The leader of the Des Moines public schools, Ian Roberts, is facing serious legal challenges after being detained by immigration authorities for allegedly living and working in the U.S. illegally. His attorney, Alfredo Parrish, has filed a request with an immigration court in Omaha to halt the deportation proceedings against him. The details of this filing remain confidential, but Parrish's firm is expected to hold a news conference to discuss the case further.

Roberts was detained by agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week, leading to immediate repercussions, including a decision by a state board to revoke his superintendent license. The Des Moines school board responded by placing him on unpaid leave, affecting the management of a district that serves over 30,000 students.

In a move signaling the gravity of the situation, board chair Jackie Norris announced that Roberts has until noon on Tuesday to submit proof of his legal entitlement to work in the United States. If he fails to do so, the board may initiate dismissal proceedings against him as early as that same evening.

Roberts, 54, remains in custody at the Woodbury County Jail in Sioux City, Iowa, which is located approximately 150 miles northwest of Des Moines. This incident raises significant questions regarding immigration policy and its impact on community leaders and educational institutions.