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Patriots’ Stefon Diggs Faces Felony Charges Amid Playoff Push: What We Know
Stefon Diggs, the star wide receiver for the New England Patriots, is facing serious legal trouble following allegations of physical assault involving a former employee.
As the New England Patriots (13-3) prepare for a deep postseason run, the franchise is dealing with a major off-field distraction. Star wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing a felony charge of strangulation and a misdemeanor charge of assault stemming from an alleged incident on December 2.
A motion hearing was held Tuesday morning at the Dedham (Massachusetts) District Court. With his arraignment scheduled for January 23—just days before the AFC Championship Game—the timing could not be worse for the Super Bowl contenders.
The Allegations: A Financial Dispute Turned Violent?
According to police reports, the accuser, who worked as a private chef for Diggs, came forward on December 16. She alleged that the confrontation began over unpaid wages at Diggs’ residence.
The report details a harrowing encounter:
- The Confrontation: The woman claims Diggs entered her bedroom and struck her across the face following a discussion about money owed to her.
- The Assault: When she attempted to push him away, Diggs allegedly used his elbow to choke her around the neck before throwing her onto a bed.
- The NDA Clause: After leaving the residence, the woman returned on December 9 to retrieve her property. She claims Diggs’ assistant informed her that she would only receive her pay if she signed a nondisclosure agreement (NDA). She refused to sign.
Diggs’ Defense: “Categorically Denies”
Stefon Diggs and his legal team are fighting back against the claims. His attorney, David Meier, released a pointed statement labeling the accusations as “unsubstantiated” and “uncorroborated.”
“The timing and motivation for making the allegations is crystal clear: they are the direct result of an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction,” Meier stated.
While the defense maintains Diggs’ innocence, reports from the Boston Globe suggest that his legal team is simultaneously exploring a “monetary resolution” to settle the matter outside of criminal proceedings.
Impact on the New England Patriots
The Patriots, currently sitting at a dominant 13-3 record, find themselves in a delicate position. Diggs, who signed a three-year, $69 million contract last March, has been the focal point of their offense this season with:
- 82 receptions
- 970 receiving yards
- 4 touchdowns
Official Statements
- The New England Patriots: “We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL.”
- The NFL: The league confirmed they are “aware of the matter” and are monitoring the legal developments, which could eventually lead to a review under the Personal Conduct Policy.
What’s Next for Stefon Diggs?
The Patriots are set to face the Miami Dolphins this Sunday to close out the regular season. While Diggs remains active for now, his legal calendar looms large over the team’s playoff schedule. If the Patriots advance to the AFC Championship, Diggs will have to balance his preparation for the biggest game of the year with a court appearance on January 23.