LIVINGSTON (AP) — A former state legislator declared he was in charge of a Livingston courtroom after a justice of the peace abruptly adjourned a hearing.

Justice of the Peace Linda Budeski was heckled by supporters of former Republican Rep. Joel Boniek Monday in what was supposed to be a simple scheduling hearing.

Boniek was arrested in July on charges of obstructing a peace officer, resisting arrest and fleeing from or eluding a peace officer. He has pleaded not guilty.

On Monday, Boniek and his supporters questioned the prosecutor's credentials and authority to preside over the case.

As the crowd became rowdy, Budeski adjourned the hearing and walked out.

Boniek proclaimed that he was in charge and declared the case against him dismissed.

The Livingston Enterprise reports the case has just been delayed.

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