The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word CUR
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
C
U
R
More clues leading to the result CUR
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Scoundrel" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case scoundrel = cur.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CUR mean?
CUR noun- A contemptible or inferior dog.
- A detestable person.