In a significant legal development for the New England Patriots, one of two major criminal cases that overshadowed the team's journey to Super Bowl LX has been formally dismissed in Massachusetts. Prosecutors announced on Monday that they will drop a domestic assault and battery charge against defensive lineman Christian Barmore, citing an inability to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.
Barmore Case Dismissed Due to Lack of Evidence
The Bristol County District Attorney's Office stated that the decision to withdraw the charge stems from insufficient evidence to secure a conviction. Christian Barmore, a product of the University of Alabama, was accused of seizing his girlfriend's mobile phone and forcefully throwing her to the floor during a heated argument at his residence in Mansfield, Massachusetts, last August.
District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn explained that the accuser expressed reluctance to travel out of state to participate in the legal proceedings, further complicating the prosecution's efforts. Throughout the investigation, Barmore's legal representative, attorney David Meier, has consistently asserted his client's innocence.
'The evidence will demonstrate that no criminal conduct took place,' Meier previously declared, reinforcing Barmore's stance. The dismissal removes a substantial legal cloud from the Patriots' defensive unit as they prepare for future seasons.
Stefon Diggs Faces Serious Felony Allegations
Meanwhile, the Patriots' other high-profile legal entanglement involves former star wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who was recently released by the team. Diggs pleaded not guilty last month to felony strangulation and additional criminal charges in Massachusetts, following allegations of a violent physical assault.
The incident reportedly arose from a financial disagreement with his personal chef. According to official reports, the woman informed authorities that Diggs 'smacked her across the face' and subsequently 'tried to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck,' leaving her struggling to breathe.
The 32-year-old free agent has vehemently denied these accusations through his legal counsel, setting the stage for a contentious court battle. This case continues to cast a shadow over Diggs' professional career and the Patriots' recent roster decisions.
Patriots Move Forward with Roster Adjustments
In response to Diggs' departure and legal troubles, the New England Patriots swiftly acted to bolster their receiving corps. On Tuesday, the team signed veteran wide receiver Romeo Doubs, formerly of the Green Bay Packers, as a strategic replacement.
Doubs, who served as the Packers' secondary receiving option, achieved career-best statistics in the 2025 season. He recorded a personal high of 724 receiving yards, averaged an impressive 13.2 yards per catch, and scored six touchdowns, demonstrating his potential to fill the void left by Diggs.
This roster move underscores the Patriots' proactive approach to maintaining competitive strength amid off-field controversies. As the legal proceedings for Diggs unfold, the organization appears focused on building a resilient team capable of overcoming such distractions.
