Summary (tl;dr)

Justin Tawse Brigham, co-owner of Charlotte's Sycamore Brewing, has been arrested in Stanly County, North Carolina, on felony charges including statutory rape of a child under 15, first-degree burglary, and indecent liberties with a child. His wife, Sarah Brigham (now Sarah Taylor), has assumed full leadership of the brewery, stating that Brigham is divesting his interests in the company.

Essential Background

Sycamore Brewing, co-founded by Justin and Sarah Brigham, has been a prominent craft brewery in Charlotte, North Carolina, since its establishment, with Justin Brigham actively involved in its growth and operations. The brewery previously garnered headlines in 2022 due to a trademark infringement lawsuit against Stone Brewing over the slogan "Keep It Juicy," a dispute that was eventually settled with both parties dropping their complaints.

The Full Story

Justin Tawse Brigham, 44, the now-former co-owner of Sycamore Brewing, was arrested on Thursday, December 11, 2025, in Stanly County, North Carolina. He faces three felony charges: statutory rape of a child under 15 years of age, first-degree burglary, and indecent liberties with a child. According to the arrest warrant from the Stanly County Sheriff's Office, Brigham is accused of breaking into a home in Stanfield on Wednesday, December 10, and engaging in sexual acts with a 13-year-old girl. He appeared in court and was granted a $10 million bond, with conditions including surrendering his passport, remaining in North Carolina, having no contact with the victim, and staying off social media. Sarah Brigham, his wife and co-owner, released a statement on the brewery's Instagram, expressing devastation and announcing that she is assuming full leadership, with Justin Brigham divesting all his interest and having no further involvement with Sycamore Brewing.

Why It Matters

This incident has significant implications for Sycamore Brewing, which is a well-known establishment in the Charlotte area. The charges against a prominent co-owner could severely damage the brewery's reputation and potentially impact its operations and public perception. The swift action taken by Sarah Brigham to assume full leadership and divest her husband's interest highlights an effort to mitigate the fallout and prioritize the company's team and future. Furthermore, the severe nature of the allegations brings a legal and ethical spotlight onto the individuals involved and the broader community.

Geographic Location

• Stanly County, North Carolina, United States (arrest of Justin Tawse Brigham)
• Stanfield, Stanly County, North Carolina, United States (alleged break-in and assault at a home)
• Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, United States (location of Sycamore Brewing)