Sycamore Brewing Co-Founder Arrested on Rape Charges in Stanly County
Brewing Company Owner Arrested in North Carolina Case
On Wednesday in Stanfield, North Carolina, Justin Brigham, 44, the co-founder and owner of Sycamore Brewing in South End, was arrested on rape and related charges involving a 13-year-old girl.
Court documents state that Brigham is accused of breaking into a home in Stanfield on Wednesday and raping a 13-year-old girl inside the residence. According to the Stanly County Sheriff's Office, the girl's parents discovered Brigham in their daughter's bedroom. Deputies reported that, upon arriving at the scene, they located Brigham undressed in a nearby vehicle and took him into custody.
Charges and Alleged Online Communication
Authorities charged Brigham with first-degree burglary, statutory rape of a child, and indecent liberties with a child. A report stated that Brigham and the victim communicated for two weeks on a popular social media application. During those communications, the victim appeared to be a minor, and Brigham confirmed the girl's age.
The Stanly County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at Brigham's home in south Charlotte on Thursday as part of the ongoing investigation. Brigham is currently being held at the Stanly County Detention Center.
Company Response and Legal Proceedings
Following Brigham's arrest, his wife and business partner, Sarah Taylor, released a statement indicating that she is devastated by the charges and the harm caused to their family and others. She stated that Brigham will no longer have any involvement with Sycamore Brewing.
Brigham made his first court appearance on Thursday. During that appearance, the court set his secured bond at $10 million. He remains in custody at the Stanly County Detention Center.
Ongoing Investigation and Contact Information
The Stanly County Sheriff's Office has described the case as an ongoing investigation. Officials are asking anyone with information related to this case, or any other victim of sexual assault, to contact the Investigative Division of the Stanly County Sheriff's Office at 704-986-3714 or via email at cid@stanlycountync.gov.