Patriots Star Stefon Diggs Faces Arraignment on Strangulation and Assault Charges
New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is scheduled to be arraigned in Massachusetts on Friday, facing a felony strangulation charge and a misdemeanor assault and battery charge. These charges stem from an alleged dispute with his former private chef, as detailed in court records.
Postponed Arraignment to Accommodate Super Bowl Participation
The arraignment at Dedham District Court was initially postponed until after Super Bowl LX to allow Diggs to play in the NFL championship game. Originally slated for January 23, it was moved to February 13, which is five days after the Patriots' 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, to fit his playing schedule.
Allegations of Physical Altercation During Financial Dispute
According to court documents, the woman involved reported to Dedham officers that she and Diggs argued about money he owed her for her services as his private chef. During the encounter on December 2 at his home, she alleged that he "smacked her across the face" and then "tried to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck," leaving her feeling short of breath.
Diggs Denies Allegations as Unsubstantiated
Diggs' attorney has stated that he "categorically denies these allegations," describing them as unsubstantiated and motivated by the financial dispute. The New England Patriots have released a statement expressing their support for the player during this legal process.
Timeline of Reporting and Legal Proceedings
Investigators allege that the woman first reported the incident to police on December 16, two weeks after it occurred. She initially hesitated to file charges but later decided to proceed, as noted in court documents. The arraignment on Friday will mark the first court appearance in this case, where the judge is expected to address bail conditions and set future hearing dates.
