BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) - Winona Ryder's preliminary hearing on shoplifting and drug possession charges began Monday after the actress' late arrival in court.

Superior Court Judge Elden S. Fox turned down last-minute defense efforts to disqualify the prosecutor and close the hearing.

The preliminary hearing, a process in which the judge determines whether there's sufficient evidence to proceed to trial, began hours later than expected because of Ryder's tardy arrival.

Prosecutors allege Ryder stole $4,800 worth of items from a Saks Fifth Avenue store in Beverly Hills in December. Police said she also was carrying the painkiller oxycodone, a morphine derivative, without a prescription.

The 30-year-old star of "Girl, Interrupted" was charged with one count each of grand theft, burglary, vandalism and possession of a controlled substance. She posted $20,000 bail shortly after her arrest.

Ryder was nominated for Oscars for 1993's "The Age of Innocence" and 1994's "Little Women." She co-stars next with Adam Sandler in "Mr. Deeds," opening June 28.