DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The legal situation surrounding Ian Roberts, the superintendent of Des Moines public schools, has intensified following his recent detention by immigration authorities. His attorney, Alfredo Parrish, has filed a request with the federal immigration court in Omaha to stay deportation proceedings against Roberts. Details of this filing remain confidential, but a press conference is expected later today.

Roberts, originally from Guyana, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week, sparking immediate actions from the Des Moines school board, which has over 30,000 students and nearly 5,000 employees. Following his arrest, the state board moved swiftly to revoke his license to operate as a superintendent.

In a recent board meeting, chair Jackie Norris stated that Roberts and his legal representation must provide proof of his eligibility to work in the United States by noon today or initiate dismissal proceedings. The board may convene in a special session as early as this evening to address the matter further.

Roberts, now 54, remains in custody at the Woodbury County Jail, approximately 150 miles northwest of Des Moines, as both his legal and professional prospects hang in the balance.