Patriots WR Stefon Diggs faces assault and strangulation charges in Massachusetts; Court proceedings underway

New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing serious legal trouble in Massachusetts, with assault and strangulation charges filed against him following an alleged December 2 incident. This has rapidly evolved into a central issue for the Patriots, introducing legal concerns and organizational challenges just as the team moves into a critical stretch.According to court filings reported by CBS Boston, the 32-year-old receiver has been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation along with misdemeanor assault and battery. The case has been brought in Dedham District Court, though limited information about the alleged incident is publicly available at this stage.Stefon Diggs has strongly denied the accusations, calling them “categorically false” through statements released by the New England Patriots and his legal team. The Patriots said they support the player while continuing to collect information and cooperating with authorities and the NFL. Diggs’ attorney David Meier went further, describing the accusations as “unsubstantiated” and linked to a financial dispute, arguing that the claims were never investigated because “they did not occur.”Diggs is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on January 23. During a recent court appearance, attorney Michael DiStefano asked that the contents of the police report be kept sealed for now, pointing to the ongoing nature of the case. Prosecutors didn’t oppose the request, but the judge stressed that there is a clear public interest and said transparency also matters in a situation like this. DiStefano also revealed that Diggs has made a financial offer to the alleged victim, and both sides are currently discussing a possible resolution.The NFL has not publicly addressed possible league action. Diggs joined New England in March on a three-year, $69 million deal after returning from an ACL injury and quickly became a central offensive weapon. He played a key role in the team’s AFC East title win over the New York Jets last weekend, finishing with 101 receiving yards and a touchdown. Off the field, Diggs is also a father, having welcomed a baby boy with rapper Cardi B in November, which has added to the public interest in his personal and professional life.At this point, the case remains an active legal matter. The Patriots, the league, and fans across the NFL are now waiting on the court process to determine what comes next, both legally and for Diggs’ playing future.Also Read: Stefon Diggs contract incentives explained after Patriots shuffle roster