Boog,  This really does not help you much;  however, this is what is allowed in PA (from the PA DCNR website).

From what I see *here*, it seems like your officer was a bit "over-the-top".  However, your rules in IN may be very different.  Again, below applies to PA:

Operation on streets and highways
ATVs may be operated only on streets and highways designated and posted as an ATV road by the government agency having jurisdiction over that road.

An ATV may make a direct crossing of a street or two-lane highway if:

• The crossing is made at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the direction of the highway and at a place where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing;
• The ATV is brought to a complete stop before crossing the highway;
• The driver yields the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic that constitutes an immediate hazard;
• The crossing of a divided highway is made at an intersection of that highway with another street or highway.

ATVs may be operated on streets or highways during periods of emergency, if declared by the jurisdiction, or when necessary to cross a bridge or culvert.