Sycamore Brewing Faces Leadership Shift After Co-Owner Charged With Statutory Rape

Sycamore Brewing Co-Owner Arrested on Statutory Rape Charges

In a stunning development for Charlotte’s craft beer scene, Sycamore Brewing finds itself at the center of a legal and ethical crisis. On December 11, 2025, Justin Tawse Brigham, the 44-year-old co-owner of the popular brewery, was arrested in Stanly County, North Carolina. According to court records and arrest warrants reviewed by WCNC Charlotte and WBTV, Brigham faces three felony charges: statutory rape of a child under 15, first-degree burglary, and indecent liberties with a child.

Authorities allege that, on December 10, Brigham broke into a home along Furr Road in Stanfield and engaged in sexual acts with a 13-year-old girl. The following morning, he was taken into custody and appeared in court, where he was issued a $10 million bond. Conditions for his release include surrendering his passport, remaining within North Carolina, having no contact with the victim, and refraining from social media use.

Immediate Fallout: Leadership Change and Public Response

Within hours of the charges becoming public, Sycamore Brewing’s website and social channels reflected a dramatic shift. Sarah Brigham, Justin’s wife and co-founder, posted a statement on Instagram—using her maiden name—addressing employees, customers, and partners. She wrote, “I am devastated by the charges against Justin and the pain this has inflicted on our family and others. Effective immediately, I am assuming full leadership of the company. Justin is divesting all of his interest and will have no further involvement. Our team remains my highest priority as a mom and a business owner.”

The reaction from the local business community was swift. Freya’s Haus, a beer garden in Wilmington, announced via Facebook it would immediately pull all Sycamore Brewing products from its shelves and make a donation to a local rape crisis center. This gesture, though symbolic, sent a clear message about the gravity of the allegations and the collective demand for accountability.

Sycamore Brewing: Roots and Reputation

Founded in 2013, Sycamore Brewing quickly became a fixture in Charlotte’s craft beer scene, known for its innovative brews and vibrant taproom culture. Justin and Sarah Brigham built the business together, often highlighting their partnership as a cornerstone of the brewery’s ethos. For regulars and staff, the news of Justin’s arrest came as a shock, casting a shadow over years of hard work and community engagement.

The public statement from Sarah Brigham, and her decision to sign it with her maiden name, marked a clear effort to distance the brewery from the allegations. Employees were reassured that their well-being remains the top priority, and customers were informed that Justin would no longer have any involvement with the business.

Community Reaction and Broader Impact

The allegations have ignited conversations about safety, accountability, and corporate responsibility within Charlotte’s business community. The swift response from other local businesses, including product removals and charitable donations, reflects a larger cultural shift: brands and organizations are increasingly expected to respond decisively to serious allegations, not just internally but in public-facing ways.

For Sycamore Brewing’s loyal patrons, the news raises uncomfortable questions. Can a business truly separate itself from the actions of its founders? What is the path forward for a company that must rebuild trust overnight? Sarah Brigham’s leadership will be tested in the weeks to come, as she attempts to steady the company, support her employees, and reassure customers.

Meanwhile, Justin Brigham is scheduled to appear in court again on December 29, 2025. The legal process will continue to unfold, but the brewery’s future now rests on Sarah’s shoulders—and on the willingness of the Charlotte community to embrace change while demanding justice.

Support Resources and Next Steps

As the story unfolds, local and national resources are being highlighted for those affected by domestic violence or sexual assault. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) and text support (START to 88788) are available, with services in North and South Carolina. The brewery’s statement and the actions of other businesses serve as reminders that support and solidarity are crucial in times of crisis.

The Sycamore Brewing case underscores the profound impact personal conduct can have on business reputation and community trust. While the legal process will determine Justin Brigham’s fate, the swift leadership transition and decisive community response illustrate a broader reckoning within the craft beer industry—and perhaps, a blueprint for how businesses must act when faced with allegations this serious.