New England Patriots defensive star Christian Barmore has been formally charged with domestic assault, according to a new report, marking the second such accusation against a Patriots player in as many days.
Details of the Alleged Assault
Court documents from the Attleborough District Court, obtained by WCVB, reveal that Barmore, 26, is charged with assault and battery on a family or household member. The alleged incident took place on August 8 in Mansfield, Massachusetts.
The unnamed victim, who stated she was in a relationship with the NFL player, told authorities the altercation began over a dispute concerning the temperature of his bedroom and an argument about food. As she attempted to flee the home, she claims Barmore took her phone. The victim further alleged that when she tried to open a door to scream for help, Barmore grabbed her, threw her to the floor, and then grabbed her by the shirt near the neck area as she tried to get up.
The report states the incident occurred in the presence of the couple's two-year-old child. The victim told police she sustained bruises and subsequently used a car service to travel with her child to Delaware.
Legal Proceedings and Team Response
The victim filed charges in September after initial hesitation due to fear of retaliation. She later emailed police in early December stating she did not wish to proceed, but a complaint was officially issued on December 16. Barmore's arraignment is scheduled for February 3, 2026, which falls just five days before the Super Bowl in California.
Barmore's attorney, David Meier, issued a strong statement in defence of his client: "We are confident that the evidence will demonstrate that no criminal conduct took place. Based on the facts and the law, we expect that this personal matter will be resolved in the near future and both parties will move forward together."
The New England Patriots organisation confirmed they are aware of the reports and the pending arraignment. In a statement, they said: "The Patriots were made aware at the time of the incident and informed the NFL in a timely manner. The matter remains part of an ongoing legal process. We will respect that process, continue to monitor the situation closely, as we have over the past few months, and cooperate fully with the league."
Second Patriots Player Accused
The accusation against Barmore emerges one day after news broke that his teammate, wide receiver Stefon Diggs, 32, is facing felony strangulation and misdemeanour assault charges. These relate to an alleged December 2 incident where a private chef claims Diggs smacked and tried to choke her during a dispute over money.
Diggs' arraignment is set for January 23. His attorney, also David Meier, stated Diggs "categorically denies" the allegations, calling them "unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated -- because they did not occur."
The Patriots said they support Diggs, have been informed he denies the claims, and will continue to gather information while cooperating with authorities and the NFL.
