Davidson County, NC – A shocking case of bigamy has come to light in North Carolina, where Harry Burdick Jr. is accused of being legally married to three different women at the same time, each in a separate county. Authorities say that Burdick also maintained a relationship with a fourth woman, revealing a complex web of deceit allegedly driven by financial motives.
The story emerged after a months-long investigation by the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office, which announced that Burdick was charged with two counts of felony bigamy. The investigation began in April following a report that led deputies to uncover the multiple simultaneous marriages across Davidson, Guilford, and Lincoln counties, all located centrally in North Carolina.
The Pattern of Deception and Financial Gain
According to officials, Burdick first obtained a marriage license and got married in Davidson County in January 2023. However, records also revealed simultaneous marriages in two other counties – Guilford and Lincoln – with no divorce records found for any of the three marriages. Investigators believe this was a deliberate scheme with financial motivation and personal gain driving his actions.
Law enforcement suspects that this was a recurring behavior pattern where Burdick would marry a woman, benefit financially, then move on to another marriage without ending the previous one. Adding complexity, a fourth woman reportedly came forward claiming a romantic relationship with Burdick as well.
“I can’t imagine anybody even wanting to do that,” said Burdick’s neighbor, Roger Walser, speaking to local ABC affiliate WSOC. “It just don’t make sense. To me it don’t. One woman is all any man needs.”
Legal Actions and Potential Implications
Burdick was taken into custody on August 22 but was subsequently released under a written promise to appear in court. His first court appearance is scheduled for September 22 at the Davidson County Courthouse. Bigamy in North Carolina is a felony offense, punishable by three to 12 months in prison.
Additional background shows that Burdick has a history of marriage and divorce, having finalized a divorce in Guilford County in January 2019.
- Harry Burdick Jr. is charged with two counts of felony bigamy.
- Married to three women simultaneously in Davidson, Guilford, and Lincoln counties.
- Investigation began after a report made in April 2023.
- Fourth woman reports a romantic relationship with Burdick.
- Potential prison sentence for bigamy is three to 12 months.
What This Means for North Carolina
This case shines a light on the importance of thorough record-keeping and vigilance by county officials in matters of marriage licenses and the enforcement of marriage laws. The allegations can also spark conversations about the exploitation of these legal processes for financial benefit and personal gain, urging authorities to enhance measures to detect similar conduct.
Residents in North Carolina and surrounding counties may find it critical to understand the legal ramifications of bigamy and the safeguards in place to prevent such cases. It also raises awareness about the impact on victims involved in complex multi-marriage situations.
Community Voices and Reflections
Local reactions have been one of disbelief and concern. Burdick’s neighbor’s statement encapsulates community shock and confusion about the motives behind such acts.
“It just don’t make sense,” said Roger Walser. “One woman is all any man needs.”
This story is still developing as authorities continue their investigation and more information emerges.
What do you think about this case of bigamy in North Carolina? Have you ever encountered situations involving multiple simultaneous marriages? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
