Hello Ladies of AKA,

Catwoman- I used to be a dispatcher for my local police department in Texas and your story is not that unusual. While dispatching for the local police, I would also assist the county and state trooper units as well.

Talking to each passenger one on one is how they determine if the truth is being told or something is not right. Florida is a popular state for drug traffic, especially at a certain time of year, so a lot of people (all races from my experience) with out of state plates get pulled over for the smallest traffic violation. Now, I'm not saying this is right or okay, but from working on the other side, I see their methods.
Also rental cars are targeted. Lots of drug runners use them. I can't tell you how many Enterprise rent-a-cars were impounded because drugs were found or large amounts of cash (I'm talking thousands of dollars) with no reasonable explanation.

I hope that experience didn't ruin your trip and that you will give Texas another try!