Onei,
I do appreciate your attention to detail. I am fairly new here, although I did have an account for some time. I understand your judgement. Just to clarify the four facts -
1. I don't mind if someone gives me a free ride. Much less hassle (but that is my opinion)
2. "dude hiding among the bushes watching said cop car make the rounds" - you are certainly letting your imagination play. It was more like me just standing and waiting and a cop car entering the premises.
3. I left because I saw the cop car. Try to take all things into account - new guy, cold weather, tardy provider while a cop car joins the party! I added 2 and 2, judged conditions to be hostile and left.
4. I cant help it if cabs in Austin are super efficient
The motive of posting the incident was not to whine or belittle anyone. I was merely sharing the experience. I am sure the provider is nice (as evidently seen from her reviews) As I said, it was one of those nights.