CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A well-known figure in Charlotte’s craft beer community has been arrested on multiple felony charges after authorities say he broke into a Stanfield home and sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl.
According to the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office, 44-year-old Justin Brigham, co-founder and co-owner of Sycamore Brewing in South End, was taken into custody Wednesday after the child’s parents reportedly found him inside their daughter’s bedroom.
Deputies arrived at the home shortly after the family contacted authorities. Investigators say Brigham was later discovered undressed inside a vehicle near the property, where officers arrested him without incident.
Court documents state that Brigham had been communicating with the victim for approximately two weeks on a social media app. Detectives said the girl clearly appeared to be a minor and that Brigham acknowledged her age during their conversations.
Brigham faces several serious charges, including:
- First-degree burglary
- Statutory rape of a child
- Indecent liberties with a minor
On Thursday, deputies executed a search warrant at Brigham’s south Charlotte residence as part of the ongoing investigation.
Following the arrest, Brigham’s wife and Sycamore Brewing co-owner, Sarah Taylor, released a statement expressing shock, saying she is “devastated” by the allegations and the impact on the families involved. She confirmed that Brigham will have no further role in the company.
Brigham made his first court appearance Thursday afternoon, where a judge set his secured bond at $10 million. He is currently being held at the Stanly County Detention Center.
Authorities say the investigation remains active, and additional charges are possible as detectives review electronic communication records and evidence collected from the scene.
Officials are urging anyone with further information to contact the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office.