Are pictures on cards checked?

This is probably more a question than a statement. Twice now the Yuma Sun has published an informative and detailed description of the new border SENTRI program.

The method of using the new passes was described in the latest Yuma Sun article excerpt: "Unlike border crossers who wait in sometimes lengthy car and pedestrian lines to be admitted by CBP officers into the United States, SENTRI members are routed to designated lines where they hold up radio frequency identification cards in front of card readers that let them pass through."

I hope I'm wrong, but that indicates to me that even though there is a picture on the card, no one is checking it. Anyone, including illegals and terrorists, could use the card while another person would bring the card back to Mexico for the next illegal to use.

I don't believe it would be too hard to find someone on either side of the border that would succumb to the temptation to use the card in that manner.

Now let's assume that the picture on the card is being verified as to the holder by an inspector, then how much is the crossing being expedited over the use of a passport that also contains a picture and requires an inspector?

It might be interesting to hear from someone that is more knowledgeable about SENTRI or who has further thoughts on the subject.

ROBERT BETZ, Yuma