Justin Brigham, co-owner of Sycamore Brewing in Charlotte, was arrested Thursday on charges including break-in and the statutory rape of a 13-year-old. The arrest immediately prompted a strong public response from his wife and fellow co-owner, Sarah Taylor, who addressed the incident in an official statement.
According to authorities, Brigham is accused of breaking into a residence on December 10 and engaging in unlawful acts with a minor. He was arrested the following morning and now faces multiple felony charges.
Sarah Taylor Drops Husband’s Name and Takes Full Control of Sycamore Brewing
In her statement, Sarah Taylor revealed that she has permanently dropped her husband’s last name and returned to her maiden name. Addressing employees, customers, and partners, she expressed the emotional impact of the charges on her family and the community.
She stated she is “devastated by the charges against Justin and the pain this has inflicted on our family and others.”
Taylor also confirmed that she is now assuming full leadership of Sycamore Brewing: “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 statement was also published on Sycamore Brewing’s Instagram account.
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Who Is Sarah Taylor?
Sarah Taylor is the co-founder and now sole owner of Sycamore Brewing, one of Charlotte’s most successful and recognizable craft breweries. Founded in 2013, the brewery has grown significantly and recently reopened inside a 16-story tower following the sale of its previous site in 2019.
Profiles from 2015 indicate that Taylor moved to Charlotte before building the brewery with Justin. Reports also show that the couple has at least one daughter.
Details of the Charges Against Justin Brigham
Brigham faces three major charges:
- First-degree burglary
- Statutory rape of a minor under 15
- Indecent liberties with a child
Court records confirm that the 44-year-old received a $10 million bond on December 11. Arrest warrants allege he broke into a home on Furr Road in Stanfield on December 10 and assaulted the minor inside.
His next court appearance is scheduled for December 29, following his arraignment.
Sycamore Brewing Moves Forward Under Taylor’s Leadership
With Brigham divested from the company, Sarah Taylor now leads Sycamore Brewing alone. Despite the turmoil, she emphasized her commitment to the brewery’s employees and customers as the brand continues operating under her direction.
