South Elgin man scuffles with court security, snubs judge

A 32-year-old South Elgin man accused of growing marijuana four years ago is in more trouble after disrespecting a judge and scuffling with security officers, court records and an arrest report show.

Scott T. Hochstetter, of the 200 block of Sandhurst Lane, is now charged with aggravated battery to a peace officer, a felony that carries a maximum prison term of seven years.

Judge Clint Hull also found Hochstetter in criminal contempt of court and issued a 180-day jail term that he can have halved for good behavior, according to court records. Hochstetter was in Kane County court July 15 for a jury trial on charges stemming from a September 2012 arrest onncharges of growing 19 marijuana plants.

Hochstetter, who was acting as his own attorney in the marijuana case, refused to approach the bench or acknowledge to Hull that his name was actually Hochstetter, according to court records.

“I believe there has been a mistake. I am not that name,” Hochstetter told Hull, despite appearing in court 16 previous times and answering his name when called.

Hull told Hochstetter if he did not approach the bench, he would be charged with criminal contempt. Again, Hochstetter refused.

“The conduct of the contemnor, which occurred in the presence of the court while the court was in open session, impeded and interrupted the court's proceedings, lessened the dignity of the court, and tended to bring the administration of justice into disrepute,” Hull wrote in his order.

According to a sheriff report. Hochstetter also scuffled with four court security officers who attempted to handcuff him.

“I have my rights,” Hochstetter yelled as officers took him to the floor, according to a sheriff report. “I have the right to a jury trial. You can't touch me. I have constitutional rights.”

One officer was scratched near his left temple, the report said.

Hochstetter appeared in court briefly Friday, when he was assigned a public defender and his case moved to Judge James Hallock's courtroom.

Hochstetter is being held on $100,000 bail and is due in court again on Aug. 15.

If convicted on the marijuana charges, he faces anywhere from probation to three years in prison