New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs has been formally charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery. This development arises from an alleged incident involving Diggs and his personal chef on December 2, the day following the Patriots' victory against the New York Giants. Court documents, as reported by multiple local news outlets, claim the dispute centered around payment issues, with the chef alleging physical assault by Diggs and a subsequent requirement to sign a nondisclosure agreement for further compensation.
The Dedham District Court's records indicate that Diggs' arraignment is set for January 23. Should the Patriots advance, this date could coincide with their AFC Championship Game preparations, posing a significant challenge. With the NFL's personal conduct policy in play, the league could potentially place Diggs on the commissioner's exempt list, sidelining him indefinitely while legal proceedings are underway.
David Meier, Diggs' attorney, has strongly denied the allegations on behalf of his client. Meier's statement emphasized the denial of the charges as "unsubstantiated and uncorroborated," maintaining that no investigation was necessary as the alleged events did not occur. The NFL, aware of the situation, has been in communication with the Patriots organization. Brian McCarthy, the chief league spokesman, refrained from commenting further, citing the ongoing review of the matter.
The Patriots, acknowledging the charges, issued a statement reiterating Diggs' stance of denial and assured cooperation with both law enforcement and the league. The team, however, has withheld further comment due to the ongoing nature of the case.
Diggs' first season with the Patriots has been notable, with the wide receiver signing a three-year, $69 million contract, including $26 million guaranteed. Despite recovering from a torn ACL, Diggs has been a pivotal part of the Patriots' offense, recording 82 receptions for 970 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games. His potential absence from the playoff roster due to the legal issues presents a serious concern for the team and league officials, who are closely monitoring the situation.
Off-field controversies are not new to Diggs, who earlier in the year was involved in a viral video incident that did not lead to formal discipline. Additionally, his personal life has attracted attention, particularly his relationship with rapper Cardi B, with whom he recently had a child.
The case against Diggs adds a layer of complexity to an already critical moment for the Patriots. The outcome of the legal proceedings will not only impact Diggs' career but could also significantly influence the team's postseason strategy and success.
