WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama asked for a full review of how a Virginia couple vying for a spot in the cast of a reality-TV show was able to crash Tuesday's state dinner for the prime minister of India, a White House official said Friday.

Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan issued a rare apology, saying the service took full responsibility for the episode and was "deeply concerned and embarrassed."

White House aides added a new wrinkle Friday, saying the couple was photographed with Mr. Obama on the receiving line. They also had their pictures taken with Vice President Joe Biden.

The Secret Service has not ruled out pursuing criminal charges against the couple, Michaele and Tareq Salahi, though it has not determined whether party-crashing is technically illegal, spokesman Jim Mackin said. He could not think of a previous instance similar to the Salahis' breach.

The couple was admitted to the White House grounds and the state reception without an invitation, but they weren't seated for the dinner.