>>You can (I assume this is the case also in Holland) cross the road wherever you like. Unlike in the US where you can end up arrested
>>http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/6251431.stm
>
>That incident had nothing to do with jaywalking and everything to do with being dismissive and rude to a police office. I'd expect the same thing in the UK.

Boy, did we read the same article? How do you come to the conclusion that the handcuffee was "being dismissive and rude to a police officer."?
The guy said he didn't realize he was being told about not doing it by a police officer and thanked him for letting him know. Then when the officer asked him for identification he reacted by asking the fellow for some of his own. That's rude and dismissive???? I guess I need a course in remedial reading.

A few years ago I was in my local mall on a Saturday morning and a police lady approached me and asked my name. I asked her why she needed it. Her answer was along the lines of 'I don't. I'd just like to know' so I asked her if she was looking for a date. She gave me a look and turned around.

My take is quite the opposite to yours. My bet is that the officer was posted, as some form of punishment, to jaywalking patrol, didn't like that, and to assure his re-assignment he went way overboard. I'd say mine is far more credible than your version.