Charlotte, December 16, 2025
Sycamore Brewing, a Charlotte-based craft brewery, is facing turmoil following felony charges against its co-founder, Justin Brigham. Brigham’s arrest, which includes serious accusations such as statutory rape, has led to the brewery exiting its location at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Co-founder Sarah Taylor has taken over leadership, and several major retailers are removing Sycamore’s products from shelves across the Carolinas. This situation poses significant implications for the brewery’s future in a competitive market.
Charlotte
Sycamore Brewing Faces Uncertain Future as Co-founder’s Felony Charges Lead to Airport Departure and Product Withdrawals
Charlotte, North Carolina – Sycamore Brewing, a prominent local craft brewery, is navigating a period of significant upheaval following the arrest and felony charges brought against its co-founder, Justin Brigham. The unfolding situation has led to the brewery’s impending departure from its location at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and a widespread removal of its products from various retailers across the Carolinas.
The decision for Sycamore Brewing to exit the airport comes as the company grapples with the severe legal issues involving one of its founders. This development impacts the brewery’s presence in a key high-traffic location that it had established in late 2022.
Investigation and Felony Charges
Justin Tawse Brigham, 44, was arrested and faces multiple serious felony charges, including statutory rape of a child by an adult, first-degree burglary, and indecent liberties with a child. Law enforcement authorities in Stanly County, North Carolina, stated that Brigham allegedly met the 13-year-old victim online and was aware of her underage status prior to the incident. The arrest occurred after the victim’s parents reportedly discovered an unknown adult male in their daughter’s bedroom. Deputies subsequently found Brigham naked in a vehicle near the residence.
Following his arrest, Brigham was held on a $10 million bond at the Stanly County Detention Center. Investigators have indicated that more charges against him could be forthcoming as the investigation progresses. Brigham’s next court appearance in Stanly County Criminal District Court is scheduled for December 29.
Company Leadership and Market Reaction
In response to the charges, Sarah Taylor, co-founder and Brigham’s wife, announced that she has assumed full leadership of Sycamore Brewing. She stated that Justin Brigham is divesting all of his interests in the company and will have no further involvement.
The allegations have triggered a swift and significant reaction across the retail landscape. Several major grocery chains, including Food Lion, Lowes Foods, and Publix, have announced they are removing Sycamore Brewing products from their shelves throughout North Carolina and the wider Carolinas region. Additionally, numerous local bars and restaurants have publicly declared an end to their business relationships with the brewery.
Sycamore Brewing’s History at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Sycamore Brewing, established in 2013 by Justin and Sarah Brigham, had grown to become Charlotte’s top beer producer by 2022. The brewery expanded its footprint significantly in November 2022, opening a 1,828-square-foot taproom and dining concept in Concourse E at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, in partnership with global restaurateur HMSHost. This location, situated in the airport’s largest concourse, offered travelers Sycamore’s beers alongside a diverse dining menu. The airport venture represented the brewery’s first expansion outside its original South End taproom. The current developments signify an abrupt end to this airport presence, underscoring the severe repercussions of the recent charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main charges against Sycamore Brewing co-founder Justin Brigham?
Justin Brigham faces multiple felony charges, including statutory rape of a child by an adult, first-degree burglary, and indecent liberties with a child.
What is Sycamore Brewing’s current status at Charlotte Douglas International Airport?
Sycamore Brewing is on its way out from its location at Charlotte Douglas International Airport following the charges against its co-founder.
How has Sycamore Brewing responded to the allegations?
Co-founder Sarah Taylor has assumed full leadership of the company, and Justin Brigham is divesting all his interests and will have no further involvement with the brewery.
Have retailers reacted to the news?
Yes, major grocery chains such as Food Lion, Lowes Foods, and Publix, along with various local bars and restaurants across the Carolinas, are removing Sycamore Brewing products from sale.
When was Sycamore Brewing’s airport location opened?
Sycamore Brewing opened its taproom at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Concourse E in November 2022.
Key Details of Sycamore Brewing Incident
| Feature | Detail | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Event | Co-founder Justin Brigham charged with felonies | Stanly County, North Carolina |
| Charges Include | Statutory rape of a child by an adult, first-degree burglary, indecent liberties with a child | State-level |
| Airport Status | Sycamore Brewing is departing Charlotte Douglas International Airport | Charlotte |
| Company Response | Sarah Taylor (co-founder) assumes full leadership; Justin Brigham divests all interests | State-level |
| Market Reaction | Grocery chains and bars pulling Sycamore products | The Carolinas (State-level) |
| Bond Amount | $10 million | Stanly County, North Carolina |
| Next Court Date | December 29 | Stanly County, North Carolina |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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