Edward Teach Brewery owner enters pleas on two charges, others dismissed
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The owner of a brewery in Wilmington made a plea in New Hanover County court on charges stemming from an incident in November that sparked multiple lawsuits and a boycott of the brewery.
Gary Scholar, the owner of Edward Teach Brewery, faced legal challenges recently, resulting in the dismissal of the majority of charges against him, according to his lawyer.
The district attorney dismissed five of the seven charges against Scholar. However, Scholar pleaded guilty to “failure to superintend” and entered an “Alford plea” to “allowing disorderly conduct on a licensed premise.” An Alford plea indicates that Scholar acknowledged guilt while not admitting to the charge, understanding that the evidence could suggest his guilt.
Scholar’s attorney, Edwin L. West, shared a statement on the pleas on Monday evening.
“Gary never assaulted or threatened Asia Daye or Paige Grant. He was prepared to prove his innocence at a trial if necessary. The dismissal of all of those charges is entirely appropriate — and consistent with what Gary has said all along.
However, Gary understands that as the owner of a brewery he is held to a higher standard than a regular patron while in his own establishment. As such, today he pleaded guilty to failing to superintend a business for which an ABC permit has been issued and an Alford plea to being a permittee that allowed disorderly conduct on the premises, both of which are misdemeanors.
Gary’s defamation lawsuit against Madonna Nash continues, as does his suit for tampering against Erik Van Peterson. Gary looks forward to the full truth continuing to come out in court,” the statement reads.
Scholar’s defamation lawsuit against Madonna Nash for a Facebook post related to the incident remains ongoing, as does his suit against former employee Erik Van Peterson. Scholar alleges that Peterson placed QR codes on Edward Teach beer at Harris Teeter stores, linking back to the Nash’s Facebook post.
