Quote Originally Posted by Beeblebrox.420
Yes, but there are very specific rules about what constitutes probable cause. I don't know all the specifics, because they vary from one jurisdiction to another, and I am not in possession of all the facts in this case. The officer very well may have had probable cause, but since the officer failed to appear and provide his reasoning for the search, the judge had no choice but to dismiss the case. A fortuitous break for the OP - it very well could have gone differently had the officer appeared in court.
Actually, the test for probable cause is the same in all jurisdictions. Search and seizure laws are based on the United States Constitution, thus they are applicable in all states and territories governed by this document. It is pretty complicated stuff when dealing with reasonable suspicion and probable cause, and the law is constantly in flux. As Beeble stated though, you have to take it on a case by case basis, but for a cop to search your wallet he would almost always need consent, a warrant, or to have placed you under arrest first. Sounds like he screwed this one up. (You gotta love it when the pigs fuck up) It is always nice to hear that the good guys have won for once, so smoke a bowl to celebrate.