Stanly County, North Carolina, December 13, 2025
Justin Brigham, co-founder of Sycamore Brewing, was arrested in Stanly County for statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl and first-degree burglary. After the incident, his wife, Sarah Taylor, took over leadership of the brewery, which has seen products pulled from shelves by major retailers and bars across the Carolinas. The investigation remains ongoing, potentially leading to more charges.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Sycamore Brewing Co-Owner Arrested on Child Rape Charges
Justin Brigham, 44, co-founder of Sycamore Brewing, was arrested on December 10, 2025, in Stanly County, North Carolina, on charges of statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl and first-degree burglary. Authorities allege that Brigham unlawfully entered a residence in Stanfield and sexually assaulted the minor. He is currently held on a $10 million bond. The investigation is ongoing, with potential for additional charges. Sycamore Brewing’s co-founder and Brigham’s wife, Sarah Taylor, has assumed full leadership of the company, with Brigham divesting all interests and having no further involvement.
Retailers and Bars Discontinue Sycamore Products
In response to the arrest, major retailers and bars across North and South Carolina have removed Sycamore Brewing products from their shelves and taps. Lowes Foods confirmed the removal of Sycamore beer from their stores. Other retailers, including Target, Kroger, Harris Teeter, and Walmart, are also expected to cease selling Sycamore products. Additionally, bars such as Bargarita in Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood and Freya’s Haus in Wilmington have stopped serving Sycamore beers.
Background on Sycamore Brewing
Established in 2013 by Justin Brigham and Sarah Taylor, Sycamore Brewing has grown to become one of Charlotte’s most prominent breweries, with a flagship location in the Cotswold area and plans for regional expansion. The company is known for its diverse beer offerings and community engagement.
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
Brigham faces serious legal consequences, with potential for a lengthy prison sentence if convicted. The case has prompted significant community concern, leading to the withdrawal of Sycamore Brewing products from various establishments. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information to contact the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office’s investigative division.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges has Justin Brigham been arrested on?
Justin Brigham, 44, co-founder of Sycamore Brewing, was arrested on December 10, 2025, in Stanly County, North Carolina, on charges of statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl and first-degree burglary. Authorities allege that Brigham unlawfully entered a residence in Stanfield and sexually assaulted the minor. He is currently held on a $10 million bond. The investigation is ongoing, with potential for additional charges. Sycamore Brewing’s co-founder and Brigham’s wife, Sarah Taylor, has assumed full leadership of the company, with Brigham divesting all interests and having no further involvement.
Which retailers and bars have stopped selling Sycamore Brewing products?
In response to the arrest, major retailers and bars across North and South Carolina have removed Sycamore Brewing products from their shelves and taps. Lowes Foods confirmed the removal of Sycamore beer from their stores. Other retailers, including Target, Kroger, Harris Teeter, and Walmart, are also expected to cease selling Sycamore products. Additionally, bars such as Bargarita in Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood and Freya’s Haus in Wilmington have stopped serving Sycamore beers.
What is the background of Sycamore Brewing?
Established in 2013 by Justin Brigham and Sarah Taylor, Sycamore Brewing has grown to become one of Charlotte’s most prominent breweries, with a flagship location in the Cotswold area and plans for regional expansion. The company is known for its diverse beer offerings and community engagement.
What are the potential legal consequences for Justin Brigham?
Brigham faces serious legal consequences, with potential for a lengthy prison sentence if convicted. The case has prompted significant community concern, leading to the withdrawal of Sycamore Brewing products from various establishments. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information to contact the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office’s investigative division.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 10, 2025 |
| Location | Stanly County, North Carolina |
| Accused Individual | Justin Brigham, 44, co-founder of Sycamore Brewing |
| Charges | Statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl, first-degree burglary |
| Legal Status | Held on a $10 million bond; investigation ongoing with potential for additional charges |
| Company Response | Sarah Taylor assumes full leadership; Brigham divests all interests and has no further involvement |
| Retailer Actions | Major retailers and bars across North and South Carolina have removed Sycamore Brewing products from their shelves and taps |
| Community Impact | Significant community concern leading to the withdrawal of Sycamore Brewing products from various establishments |
Now Happening on X
- @LRarey (December 13, 2025, 1:40 AM) Another repeat violent offender takes the life of a young mother in Charlotte, with the mayor and city council responding by allocating millions for PR efforts to downplay the ongoing crime issues. View on X
- @WFAE (December 9, 2025, 2:30 PM) Man accused in a Charlotte light rail stabbing is held without bond, as part of broader news including NC task force updates on school measures, Matthews town manager appointment, and potential compensation for 2022 evacuees. View on X
- @wbtradio (December 9, 2025, 12:59 AM) Discussion on Charlotte’s escalating safety concerns and the political battles anticipated for 2026 amid rising crime and public safety issues. View on X
- @BuffyBoonswogle (December 8, 2025, 3:03 PM) Charlotte city leaders allocate $100,000 in taxpayer funds to support immigrants impacted by a recent US Customs & Border Patrol operation, shortly after another illegal immigrant is arrested for stabbing a man on the light rail. View on X
- @TBradleyNC (December 6, 2025, 3:56 PM) Recap of a chaotic day in Charlotte including a light rail stabbing, another stabbing near Eastway Dr., a man firing shots at police prompting a large response, and a shooting leaving a victim critically injured, calling for National Guard deployment. View on X
- @RealDonaldIsaac (December 6, 2025, 3:30 PM) Urging Charlotte to address its safety issues urgently, highlighting the need for National Guard assistance after a man is arrested in connection to a reported stabbing, amid complaints of rising taxes and declining public safety. View on X
- @andylancaster (December 11, 2025, 12:33 AM) Criticizing Charlotte’s leadership including the reelected mayor, retiring police chief, and uncooperative sheriff, while noting persistent problems like growing homelessness, frequent stabbings, and shootings. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte Small Businesses Face Holiday Challenges Amid Consumer Support
Charlotte Small Businesses Struggle with Tariff Increases
Sycamore Brewing Co-Owner Arrested on Serious Charges
Body Found in Vehicle Sparks Investigation in Charlotte
OCC Launches Investigation into Debanking Practices of Major Banks
Sycamore Brewing Founder’s Shocking Arrest and Divestment
Charlotte Gears Up for Record Thanksgiving Travel
Charlotte: A Hub of Culture, Community, and Culinary Delights
Challenges Brewing in Charlotte as Tariffs and Trends Impact Local Breweries
Charlotte’s Brunch Scene: Top Spots to Enjoy a Delicious Start to 2025
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
