Norman Taylor, recognized for his “lock ’em up” catchphrase, now finds himself entangled in serious legal troubles. The 64-year-old owner of Crewe Tractor in Virginia was arrested on October 27, 2025, following misdemeanor sexual battery charges stemming from an incident alleged to have occurred on October 24. The complainant in this case has been identified as Melissa Fulford. The charges represent a stark turn for Taylor, whose online fame was built through videos showcasing his family business and a strong stance against trespassers on his property.
Trey Taylor, Norman’s son, has publicly expressed his heartbreak over the situation. He commented on Instagram, stating, “I am heartbroken and deeply hurt by the recent allegations involving my father.” This statement reflects the difficult position the Taylor family is now in, as they navigate the repercussions of Norman’s arrest.
Norman Taylor gained notoriety after a confrontation over trespassing on his property was captured by content creator Bird28thegr8 in August 2025. His firm dismissal of the trespassers with the phrase “lock ’em up” quickly turned into a viral sensation, leading to countless memes and parody videos that elevated the profile of his family’s tractor business. The family’s agricultural machinery company, Crewe Tractor & Equipment Co., benefitted significantly from this newfound fame, especially through social media as Trey managed the business’s TikTok account.
Despite his father’s rising infamy, Trey Taylor has made efforts to distance himself from previous controversies, including the viral fishing incident. He openly apologized to viewers and the involved party in 2025, asserting that he would have handled the situation differently. Now, with the new allegations against his father, the future of their family reputation and business remains uncertain.
The legal ramifications of the charges are serious. Under Virginia law, the Class 1 misdemeanor of sexual battery holds the potential for jail time and fines, albeit it is less severe than felony charges. As of October 30, 2025, Norman Taylor remains in custody, and details regarding bail have not yet been made public. Future court dates are pending, and the family awaits the resolution of this significant legal matter.
The implications extend beyond personal and familial strains, as the integrity of Crewe Tractor & Equipment Co. could be at stake amid ongoing legal troubles. The Taylor family now faces the dual challenge of dealing with legal uncertainties while maintaining their business’s reputation in the wake of these serious allegations. As the case progresses, the hope remains that all aspects will be resolved fairly and justly for everyone involved.