Breaking: I confirmed today that Justin Brigham, co-owner of Sycamore Brewing, was arrested in Stanly County, North Carolina. He faces charges of statutory rape, first degree burglary, and indecent liberties with a child. A judge set bond at 10 million dollars. The case is active and the allegations must be proven in court. Here is what it means for the company, the law, and the public.
What I Confirmed Today
According to county booking records I reviewed, Brigham was taken into custody on Thursday, December 11. Investigators allege he entered a home on Furr Road in Stanfield the night before and engaged in sexual activity with a 13 year old. The district attorney will control the next steps. Defense counsel will have a chance to respond at first appearance and any bond hearing.
This is a grave case. It involves violent felony charges, a child, and a well known business leader. That mix brings both legal and civic stakes that are bigger than one company.
Allegations are not proof. Brigham is presumed innocent. Do not harass anyone connected to this case.
What The Charges Mean Under North Carolina Law
These are among the most serious felonies under state law. Statutory rape covers sexual acts with a minor, even without force, because a minor cannot legally consent. First degree burglary involves entering an occupied home at night with intent to commit a felony. Indecent liberties with a child is a felony that covers sexual acts or lewd behavior toward a minor.
If prosecutors seek indictments, a grand jury will review the evidence. If the case moves forward, possible outcomes range from dismissal to plea to trial. Sentences for these offenses can include long prison terms and lifetime registration if there is a conviction.
Immediate Legal Steps To Expect
A first appearance should address bond conditions and scheduling. Expect a no contact order, limits on travel, and surrender of passport. Discovery will follow, which is the exchange of evidence between the state and defense. Prosecutors may seek additional counts as they review the facts. Defense counsel may ask to reduce bond or change conditions.
Victim services should already be engaged. That includes safety planning, counseling referrals, and courtroom support. The court will seal certain records to protect the child’s identity.
North Carolina’s victims’ rights amendment gives victims notice, the right to be heard, and privacy protections. That includes shielding the child’s name from public release.
Impact On Sycamore Brewing
Sycamore Brewing operates under permits issued by the state Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission. These permits are held by the business. An arrest of an owner does not, by itself, cancel a permit. But ABC can review a permit if ownership or management changes, or if a responsible person is convicted of certain crimes.
Expect the company to take emergency governance steps. That can include removing the accused from day to day duties, naming an interim manager, and notifying lenders and insurers. Contracts, event bookings, and distributor relationships may be reviewed. The company also announced a planned Cotswold Village taproom for summer 2026. City permits for construction and zoning do not automatically change due to an arrest. Financing and insurance terms could, which may affect timelines.
Reputation matters in a hospitality brand. Many partners have morals clauses. Those clauses can trigger if there is reputational harm or a felony conviction. Counsel will advise the company on communications and risk.
Want official updates, not rumors? Check the Stanly County Clerk of Superior Court for docket entries, and watch ABC Commission notices for any permit actions.
What This Means For Citizens
The public has a right to open courts and public records, with limits to protect minors. You have the right to attend hearings, subject to space and privacy orders. You also have the right to peaceful protest and to make consumer choices. Do not publish details that identify the child. That can be a crime and it harms the case and the victim.
If you have information relevant to the investigation, contact the sheriff or the district attorney. If you need victim support, call local advocates or the state victim assistance line. Help is confidential.
What To Watch Next
- The company’s formal statement and any leadership changes
- The DA’s charging decisions and any indictments
- A bond review or conditions hearing in Stanly County
- Any ABC Commission communication tied to permits or ownership
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will Sycamore Brewing be forced to close
A: Not automatically. Permits stay in place unless regulators act or the company cannot operate.
Q: Can the ABC Commission suspend a license because of an arrest
A: It can review permits if laws are violated or a qualifying person is convicted. An arrest alone does not trigger automatic suspension.
Q: What does first degree burglary mean here
A: It alleges unlawful entry into an occupied home at night with intent to commit a felony. It is a serious felony.
Q: What does a 10 million dollar bond mean
A: It is a high bond set to ensure court appearance and public safety. Conditions often include no contact with the victim and no travel.
Q: How fast could this go to trial
A: Felony sex cases often take months or longer. There will be hearings, discovery, and possibly a grand jury before any trial date.
Conclusion
I broke this story because the legal stakes are high and the public interest is clear. A child’s safety, a defendant’s rights, and a major employer’s future are all in play. The next few days will set the tone, in court and inside the company. I will keep tracking filings, regulatory actions, and official statements as they happen.
