They do what they want , how scary is Cell phone Law for that , Cop will say you were on the phone and bam there in your car with a , Oh i'm sorry when they let you go.( Clear history as they pull you over). Also stand up for yourself with Pricks like the one you had to deal with, tell him you will follow him to the Station to talk to a Supervisor to get your beer back , Police cannot legaly take your property , that is theft . They do not like when passangers are drinking , sounds like you were , but if it is as you say and you have the time .Get your gear back.