TUSKEGEE, Ala. (AP) - The commander of the governor's task force on illegal gambling has testified in a Macon County court that he has statewide authority to crack down on gambling machines.

John Tyson was called Friday as the first witness in a lawsuit filed by Macon County officials who contend he has no authority in their county because they didn't invite him to investigate the bingo machines at VictoryLand.

Responding to angry questions from District Attorney Paul Jones, Tyson said he was not invited by the sheriff or district attorney but his appointment by the governor as task force commander gives him statewide authority.

Circuit Judge Tom Young is to decide whether to extend or withdraw a temporary order blocking Tyson and the task force from raiding the electronic bingo operation at Shorter.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)