Dec 21, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) runs the ball against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of the game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images
(New York, New York) – Stefon Diggs, a star wide receiver for the New England Patriots, is facing criminal charges in Massachusetts stemming from an alleged incident earlier this month. According to documents filed in Dedham District Court and released Tuesday, Diggs has been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery related to an incident reported on Dec. 2 in Dedham. Additional details surrounding the allegations have not been made public.
The Patriots acknowledged the charges in a statement, saying the organization is aware of the accusations and that Diggs has “categorically denied” the allegations. The team said it will continue to gather information and cooperate fully with law enforcement and the NFL, adding that it would not comment further while the legal matter remains ongoing. Diggs is scheduled to be arraigned on Jan. 23, though a judge is also considering a request to extend that date to March.
During a motion hearing Tuesday, Diggs’ attorney sought to have the police report impounded, arguing that the details should remain sealed while the case proceeds. The defense also disclosed that a financial offer has been made in an attempt to resolve the dispute with the alleged victim, though no agreement has been announced. The judge said she would take the request under advisement and issue a ruling at a later time.
The charges come during a pivotal moment in the NFL season. The Patriots recently clinched the AFC East title and are positioned as one of the conference’s top seeds entering the postseason. If New England advances, the AFC Championship Game is scheduled for Jan. 25, two days after Diggs’ currently scheduled court appearance.
Diggs, an 11-year NFL veteran, has recorded 82 receptions for 970 yards and four touchdowns this season. Off the field, he is dating rapper Cardi B, and the couple welcomed a child together in November. Court officials said further information on the case was not immediately available.
