How should an inspector approach the examination of a document with the bearer?

The approach an inspector should take when examining a document with the bearer is to consider the situation as if they aren't the original owner of the document. This perspective helps the inspector maintain an objective stance, ensuring that they assess the authenticity and validity of the document independently of the bearer's claims.

By treating the bearer as if they do not own the document, the inspector can critically evaluate various aspects of the presented material, such as identifying discrepancies, assessing the individual's story, and verifying the document against known standards or databases. This method is crucial in border patrol operations, where the possibility of fraudulent documents is significant. The inspector's ability to remain impartial and assess the documentation based solely on its merits and the context provided increases the likelihood of detecting and addressing any malicious intent or illegitimacies.

This approach acknowledges that, during inspections, individuals may present stolen, altered, or counterfeit documents, which necessitates scrutiny beyond their assertions of ownership or validity.