At a Glance
- Stefon Diggs, 32, faces felony strangulation charge over dispute with former chef.
- Lawyer denies allegations, says they stem from unpaid wage dispute.
- Patriots stand by Diggs, saying they support him.
- Why it matters: The charges could affect his NFL career and the Patriots’ playoff push.
Stefon Diggs, the Patriots’ star wide receiver, was charged in Dedham, Massachusetts, after a court hearing on Tuesday. The case involves a felony strangulation or suffocation charge and a misdemeanor assault and battery charge, with an arraignment set for Jan. 23.
Charges and Legal Timeline
The hearing revealed that Diggs is accused of strangulating a former private chef during a financial dispute. The charges include:
- Felony strangulation or suffocation
- Misdemeanor assault and battery
David Meier stated:
> “Stefon categorically denies these allegations.”
David Meier added:
> “The allegations never occurred, describing them 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.”
Chef’s Allegations and Police Narrative
Police records show the chef filed a complaint on Dec. 16 after an altercation that began on Dec. 2. The incident involved Diggs entering her bedroom, a heated discussion about money, and an alleged attempt to choke her with an elbow. She reported feeling short of breath and threatened with blacking out.
Diggs allegedly threw her onto a bed and denied the claim that she had not been paid. The chef sought payment for a week in November, returned on Dec. 9 to retrieve her property, and was told to sign a non-disclosure agreement before payment. She ultimately filed charges after changing her mind.
Team Response and Career Highlights
The Patriots released a statement saying, “We support Stefon,” reaffirming their backing. Diggs, who has six consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and four Pro Bowl selections, signed a three-year, $69 million deal in free agency, guaranteeing $26 million. He has become a key target for rookie quarterback Drake Maye, helping the team secure the AFC East title and a playoff berth.
Other Off-Field Incident
In May, a social-media video surfaced showing Diggs handing a bag of pink crystals to women on a boat. The substance was unclear, and the NFL spokesperson declined to comment. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said the matter would be handled internally.
Key Takeaways
- Diggs faces serious criminal charges that could derail his NFL career.
- Patriots stand by him despite the allegations.
- His past performance includes six 1,000-yard seasons and four Pro Bowls.
Stefon Diggs’ legal troubles add a new dimension to his story, as he balances a high-profile career with emerging off-field challenges.
AP reporter Hannah E. Clearwater contributed.
