Shame the cop didn't have the time, or didn't feel comfortable, just walking up and knocking on your door.
I used to live in a small community like that. Everybody know who's cars were who's so cop would have just gotten dispatch to give you a call. Or knocked on your door to get you to move it.
Oh well, $40 isn't much. And i doubt your friend is worried about demerits. Sucks all round.