does anyone know the law? i was walkin down the street wit a book bag, and got stopped by the police. they said i looked suspicious. (which i interpreted as i am a young male with tattoos so i obviously must be up to no good)the officer told me he wanted to search my bag and i told him no, he informed me that if i didnt consent to the search i would be arrested for obstruction of justice. is that even legal?

If they have "probable cause" to suspect you of something they have the right to search you. "Probable cause" being you fit the description of somebody who just robbed a bank or assaulted someone or "whatever". There are millions of young men with tattoos. That wasn't the reason they stopped you.

depends on the laws of your state..

well i was just walkin down the street mindin my own businees, and all the cop said was that i looked suspicious,

This.

And to add, he can really make any BS up on the spot for probable cause, as long as it looks good in court he will get off.

Oh, and to add: Always ask the reason you were stopped if there isn't a blatant reason (speeding, causing issues, etc.) record the officer's badge no. and get his name. Precint is usually a numbered badge on right or left shoulder, sometimes both, other times it is located on the collar.

Also, if you feel you have been accosted for any reason illegaly get in touch with an attorney as soon as possible. Explain in detail what happened, where you were, and how the officer treated you (experience a teacher, asking the reason is enough to get an officer pissed usually because there is no reason).

-Fear, I fought the law and I won.