Sycamore Brewing has publicly condemned its co-founder, Justin Tawse Brigham, following serious child rape charges against him. The brewery’s statement described Brigham’s alleged actions as “horrifying” and “unforgivable.”
Details of the Charges Against Brigham
Brigham, aged 44, was charged on Thursday with multiple felonies, including:
- Statutory rape of a child under 15
- First-degree burglary
- Indecent liberties with a child
The victim, a 13-year-old girl, met Brigham online just two weeks before the incident, as confirmed by Stanly County Sheriff Jeff Crisco. Authorities arrested him on Thursday after he allegedly broke into the girl’s home and assaulted her while others were present.
Community Reaction and Impact
In light of the accusations, Sycamore Brewing expressed its heartbreak for the victim. The brewery acknowledged the community’s pain and outrage, stating, “We realize that trust has been violated.” Several local grocery stores and bars have already begun severing ties with the brewery.
Co-founder Sarah Taylor has taken over the leadership of Sycamore Brewing, pledging to support the community and manage the fallout from the incident. She expressed her devastation over the charges and emphasized a commitment to healing for all affected parties.
Brigham’s Legal Proceedings
Brigham is currently being held at the Stanly County jail under a bond set at $10 million. During a court session, the judge noted that while Brigham lacks a significant criminal history, the severity of the charges warranted a high bond to protect the community.
The next court appearance for Brigham is set for December 29 in the Stanly County Criminal District Court. Sycamore Brewing has confirmed it will not support Brigham’s defense, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for the victim.
Conclusion
This tragic case serves as a reminder for parents to monitor their children’s online interactions closely. Community leaders call for increased awareness to prevent such incidents in the future.
