New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is confronting serious legal trouble, with felony and misdemeanor charges filed against him in Massachusetts. The case unfolds as his team, the Patriots, are in the midst of a successful season chasing a coveted first-round playoff bye.
Charges and Court Proceedings
According to court filings, Stefon Diggs has been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery. The alleged incident is said to have occurred on 2 December. A motion hearing took place on Tuesday in Dedham District Court, where Diggs's defence lawyer, Michael R DiStefano, appeared remotely.
DiStefano requested that key police reports and related documents be impounded, arguing that their release could prejudice the case through excessive publicity. He also informed the court that discussions are underway aimed at a financial settlement with the alleged victim. The judge is considering both the request to seal records and a separate defence motion to postpone Diggs's arraignment from 23 January to March.
Team Response and Season Impact
The New England Patriots organisation has issued a statement acknowledging the situation. "Stefon has informed the organisation that he categorically denies the allegations," the team said. "We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary."
The legal case presents a significant distraction for the Patriots. Diggs, 32, has been the team's leading pass catcher this season, with 82 receptions for 970 yards and four touchdowns. New England, with a record of 13-3, clinched the AFC East title last weekend. They can secure a first-round playoff bye with a victory in Week 18 against the Miami Dolphins, coupled with a Denver Broncos loss.
Personal Life and Next Steps
Off the field, Diggs and his partner, the recording artist Cardi B, welcomed a baby boy in November. As the legal process begins, the scheduled arraignment date of 23 January currently falls just two days before the AFC championship game, should the Patriots advance. The court is expected to rule on the defence's sealing and postponement requests imminently. Further details regarding the nature of the alleged December incident have not been made public at this time.
