Is the U.S. border really becoming stricter?
Yes. Since the tragedy of September 11, 2001, border regulations have been getting tighter. FBI databases are now linked to the RCMP (CPIC) databases. Border guards can view criminal record details simply by typing your name into their computer terminal. Unless you obtain a U.S. Entry Waiver, you are taking a serious risk anytime you try to cross the U.S. border with a criminal record.