Patriots’ Stefon Diggs Hit With Felony Strangulation Charge as Legal Troubles Cloud Playoff Push

New England Patriots WR Stefon Diggs is facing legal trouble after authorities brought a felony charge of strangulation and a misdemeanor assault charge stemming from an alleged incident on December 2nd, reviving scrutiny of the star receiver’s off-field conduct.

A motion hearing was held Tuesday morning at Dedham District Court in Massachusetts where a judge is weighing whether to seal court records ahead of Diggs’ arraignment scheduled for January 23rd, which is just two days before the AFC Championship Game. According to WCVB-TV, the defense has asked that documents be impounded to limit public disclosure before formal proceedings begin.

In a statement, the Patriots acknowledged the situation while standing behind the player.

“The New England Patriots are aware of the accusations that have been made regarding Stefon Diggs. Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon,” the team said. “We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary. Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.”

Diggs’ legal team forcefully denied the claims. His attorney, David Meier, described the accusations as baseless and tied to a financial dispute.

“Stefon Diggs categorically denies these allegations. They are unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated -- because they did not occur. 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. Stefon looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law,” Meier said.

According to the Boston Globe, Diggs’ lawyer Michael R. DiStefano argued that releasing details of the case could create “substantial risk of widespread publicity” that might prejudice potential jurors. The Globe also reported that Diggs’ defense team is pursuing a monetary resolution related to the dispute.

The NFL confirmed it is monitoring the situation but offered no further details.

“We are aware of the matter and have been in contact with the club,” the league said in a statement. “We have no further comment at this time.”

Now 32, Diggs is having a strong season on the field, leading the Patriots with 82 receptions for 970 yards and four touchdowns. New England enters the final week of the regular season at 13–3 with a matchup against the Miami Dolphins before heading into the playoffs. They have a shot at claiming the number 1 seed in the AFC with a win and a Broncos loss.

Promotional Content

Patriots’ Stefon Diggs Hit With Felony Strangulation Charge as Legal Troubles Cloud Playoff Push