ok, so maybe it wasnt a drunk check, either way, truxman's car was illegal, and the cop had every right to pull him over. I am not saying it was the best use of either of their's time, but it happened.
Also, Spec23, we have yet to meet, but most (not all) troopers I know would have pulled you over for a hanging tree (anything on windshield is illegal in MN- other than the rearview) regardless of your ethnic background. But that is not to say that he didn't treat you differently, I wouldn't even want to guess because I dont know you or him, nor was I there.
James, you said; "There is no probable cause to suggest that truxman was drunk or had an outstanding warrant, so why put him through the wringer?"
What way is there to tell the 'probable cause' of someone having an outstanding warrant, other than to run their name?
...
Like any profession in this world, there are a$$hole cops, plumbers, car mechanics, etc.
But if you are like me, the amount of times you have to see these small percentage of people is few and far between. And it is far easier to forget about it than to worry about it.
If I am reading correctly, both of you were issued warnings, (whether verbal or written, I dont know), so again, be thankful, change the infraction (new bulb, remove hanging tree) and press on with life. it's that simple.
