Alleged kidnapper faces long time behind bars

South County Courthouse

The preliminary hearing for an ex-convict who is charged with kidnapping, robbery and attempted robbery in the South Bay was delayed Monday until Oct. 19.

Leonard Earl Scroggins, 32, has been in jail since his May 29 arrest, but waived his right to have a speedy hearing before Chula Vista Superior Court Judge Esteban Hernandez. Because he’s a convicted sex offender, he is facing the possibility of 100 years in prison if convicted.

Scroggins was on parole in Napa County, but he removed his ankle bracelet and drove his mother’s car to the South Bay area on May 18.

He is charged with attempting to rob a teenaged girl and briefly kidnapping a woman while trying to steal her purse in Chula Vista.

Scroggins is suspected of stealing another woman’s purse on May 19 and trying to kidnap a 13-year-old girl in National City. He is also accused of committing a forcible lewd act upon a dependent adult.

National City police arrested him many hours later that night. Scroggins’ attorney requested more time to prepare the case.

Scroggins was convicted of trying to rape a woman and making a death threat against her in 2004 and has served several terms in prison, making him eligible for the three strikes law.

Scroggins remains in the George Bailey Detention Facility on a state parole hold.