New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing serious allegations of assault and strangulation stemming from an incident that reportedly took place on December 2, 2023. The claims, which have surfaced in documents from the Dedham District Court, include felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery.
According to a police report, a woman who worked as a private chef for Diggs approached the Dedham Police Department on December 16 to file a complaint regarding an altercation that occurred while she was employed. The woman alleged that during a confrontation about payment, Diggs “smacked her across the face” and attempted to choke her using his elbow. The police narrative describes her feeling difficulty breathing and nearly losing consciousness during the incident.
Diggs has vehemently denied the allegations. In a statement from his attorney, David Meier, he asserted that the claims are “unsubstantiated and uncorroborated,” characterizing the matter as a financial dispute between an employer and employee. He expressed confidence that Diggs would prove his innocence in court, saying, “Stefon looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law.”
The accuser’s complaint reportedly arose from a disagreement over payment for her services rendered during a week in November. After leaving her position, she returned on December 9 to retrieve her belongings, only to be referred to Diggs’ assistant regarding payment, who mentioned a non-disclosure agreement as a prerequisite for receiving her compensation. The chef ultimately declined to sign the agreement.
The situation escalated as the woman hesitated to file charges until recently, when she decided to proceed with the allegations. Diggs is due for arraignment on January 23, 2024, just two days before the AFC Championship Game.
In response to the unfolding situation, the New England Patriots issued a statement acknowledging the accusations against Diggs. They confirmed his denial of the claims and expressed their support for him. “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,” the statement read. The team emphasized their commitment to cooperating with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as the legal process unfolds.
The NFL also released a statement indicating their awareness of the situation and their communication with the Patriots, but refrained from further comments at this time.
As a prominent figure in the NFL, Diggs has made significant contributions on the field. He signed a three-year contract with the Patriots prior to this season, during which he recorded 970 receiving yards and four touchdowns across 16 games. In a personal milestone, he recently welcomed a child with music artist Cardi B.
With his legal battles ahead, the outcome could have substantial implications not only for Diggs but also for the organization he represents as the NFL season progresses.
