Former Sycamore Brewing co-owner’s arrest raises concerns over child safety, trauma impacts

Investigators confirmed, now former co-owner of one of Charlotte’s biggest breweries used Snapchat to communicate with the 13-year-old girl he’s accused of raping CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Investigators have confirmed that the former co-owner of one of Charlotte’s largest breweries used Snapchat to communicate with a 13-year-old girl he is accused of raping, highlighting concerns among child psychologists about how social media platforms can facilitate abuse. Justin Brigham, who recently stepped down from his role at Sycamore Brewing, faces charges of raping a child last week. Mental health experts say such incidents can have profound and lasting psychological impacts on young victims. “The age absolutely makes a difference because there is incomplete brain development there,” said Nannette Funderburk, a clinical counselor and health psychologist. “The perception of things and the way things play out can be extremely impactful to a child.” Business has reportedly slowed at Sycamore Brewing since news of the charges broke, as the community grapples with the allegations against Brigham. Funderburk said sexual abuse can affect children differently, but common impacts include difficulty in school, struggles with relationships, post-traumatic stress disorder, trust issues and behavioral changes. “In this situation, everybody needs therapy and possibly it may have to
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