Yes, maybe, or maybe it was meant to underline how they (border/custom officers) had not any kind of difficulties in doing that publicly, i.e. hinting that that kind of arrogant behaviour is (or can become) the "new normal"?
Anyway, it is yet another (to me) "terrifying report", I have never been to the US, but from what friends/people I know told me noone in the airport/custom have ever been anything less than respectful and professional when dealing with them (as tourists entering the country). Of course this is not even anecdotal, it is "reported anecdotal", so take it for what it is, but maybe something is really changing in the attitude towards visitors.