[PvK]

Yep, I've seen (in a major urban traffic court, anyway) the officer fail to appear in almost any case that isn't serious (i.e. only moderate speeding). However one needs to contest the ticket - i.e. check the box on the ticket that says that you didn't do it. I once checked the box saying I merely wanted to explain the circumstances, and then the officer's notes are enough, and the judge generally isn't allowed to do more than reduce the fine.

PvK