Crime & Safety
Transient Ordered To Stand Trial In Lafayette Attempted Kidnapping Case
Ralph Grohs will be arraigned in Contra Costa Superior Court on Dec. 30
A transient has been ordered to stand trial in an attempted kidnapping case in Lafayette.
Ralph Grohs, 57, was ordered to stand trial after a preliminary hearing was held last week in which evidence in the case was presented.
Grohs will be arraigned in Contra Costa Superior Court on Dec. 30.
Grohs has pleaded not guilty to the charge of attempted kidnapping of a child under the age of 14.
He is accused of trying to grab an 8-year-old girl near the Lafayette Library and Learning Center on Oct. 12.
Contra Costa Deputy District Attorney Derek Butts said Grohs' mental state and intent on that day will be important factors in the trial.
However, Butts said he feels attempted kidnapping is an appropriate charge to bring before a jury.
Grohs' attorney could not be reached for comment.
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