I think it's irrelevant if it was enforced or not. The fact that it was on the books means that it could be applied at any time. For example, if a popular town official is a suspect, I imagine that book would be pulled out and followed to a tee.

And, if the "understanding" was that no one would really be charged, why have it on the books in the first place? Especially considering that few municipalities had the same official policy and the state cops did not have the policy either, it seems it would be an easy thing to change.

After living a short time in a small town, I know that official policies that are rarely applied, can be applied at will when it serves some cronie purpose.

This all begs the question: Why keep it as an official policy, especially considering the path of least resistance seems to be to change it?