Wow, I've never had that much interaction with the cops. Maryland law is among the most restrictive in the nation: cyclists must use a bike lane or shoulder if it is present -- but not a bike path or sidewalk. Bicycles are banned from any road with a speed limit of 55 or greater. But other than that, cyclists have the right to use the roadway.

So every cop you talked to was absolutely wrong. As a practical matter, I'm not sure how much good that does you.