New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs, a four-time Pro Bowl selection and one of the NFL’s premier pass-catchers, is embroiled in a serious legal controversy following allegations of assault and strangulation.

The charges stem from an incident on December 2, 2025, at his residence in Dedham, Massachusetts, involving a woman who had been employed as his personal chef.

According to court documents and police reports released in late December 2025, Diggs faces a felony charge of strangulation or suffocation and a misdemeanor charge of assault and battery.

The accuser, whose identity has been protected in public records, told police that she began working for Diggs around July 20, 2025, with an agreement to serve as his live-in private chef through the end of the NFL season.

The dispute reportedly arose over payment for a week in November when she was sent home because Diggs was hosting house guests. She claimed she was still entitled to her salary for that period, as the break was not her request.

On December 2, while discussing the matter in her bedroom at Diggs’ home, the situation allegedly escalated. The woman stated that Diggs entered the room, became angry, smacked her across the face, and then attempted to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck.

She described having trouble breathing, feeling as though she might black out, and prying at his arm to loosen his grip.

According to the report, Diggs then allegedly threw her onto the bed and said something to the effect of “Thought so.” The woman noted some redness on her chest but did not photograph the marks.

Following the incident, the chef left her position and stayed with a friend. She returned on December 9 to retrieve her belongings, at which point text messages exchanged with Diggs and his assistant highlighted ongoing tensions over payment.

The assistant reportedly insisted she sign a non-disclosure agreement before receiving any money. Screenshots of these conversations were provided to police. The woman initially hesitated to press charges due to Diggs’ prominence but ultimately decided to proceed.

She visited the Dedham Police Department on December 16, changed her mind briefly, and then confirmed on December 23 that she wanted to file a criminal complaint.

Charges were formally issued on December 29, with Diggs’ arraignment originally scheduled for January 23, 2026—two days before a potential AFC Championship Game for the Patriots.

Court proceedings in late December considered delaying the arraignment to March, and a judge took requests under advisement regarding the release of the full police narrative.

Diggs has vehemently denied the allegations through his attorney, David Meier. In a statement, Meier asserted that Diggs “categorically denies these allegations.

They are unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated—because they did not occur.” Meier emphasized that the claims appear motivated by a unresolved financial dispute, stating, “The timing and motivation for making the allegations is crystal clear: they are the direct result of an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction.

Stefon looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law.”

The New England Patriots organization quickly issued its own response, expressing awareness of the accusations and full support for their star player. “Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon,” the team said.

“We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary.

Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.” The NFL confirmed it was aware of the matter and in contact with the club but declined additional commentary.

As of early January 2026, Diggs remains active with the team. The Patriots, boasting a strong 13-3 record and having clinched the AFC East, are preparing for their regular-season finale against the Miami Dolphins, with playoff seeding on the line.

Diggs has been a key contributor in his first season with New England after signing a three-year, $69 million contract in March 2025. The 32-year-old has recorded 82 receptions for 970 yards and four touchdowns, helping propel the team’s resurgence.

Head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the situation publicly, noting that the team takes the allegations seriously but will allow the legal process to unfold without jumping to conclusions. Both Diggs and the team have maintained focus on football amid the scrutiny.

When speaking to media for the first time after the charges surfaced, Diggs described it as “a very emotional time” but limited comments to football-related questions, apologizing for his earlier unavailability.

Legal experts have weighed in on the case’s potential challenges. Some note the lack of physical evidence beyond the accuser’s statement—no photos of injuries and no immediate medical examination—could complicate prosecution. Text messages may play a role, but without corroborating witnesses or additional proof, the outcome remains uncertain.

The involvement of a potential NDA attempt has also raised questions about the employment dynamics.

This incident adds to a tumultuous period for Diggs off the field. Earlier in 2025, he was involved in a separate defamation lawsuit against a social media influencer who made unrelated accusations, which Diggs disputed and countered legally.

On a personal note, Diggs welcomed a child with rapper Cardi B in November 2025, adding layers to his public profile.

The case has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about athlete accountability, the impact of off-field issues on team performance, and the presumption of innocence in high-profile allegations.

Patriots supporters have expressed mixed reactions, with some rallying behind Diggs as a “good guy” pending evidence, while others voiced concern over the serious nature of the claims.

As the legal proceedings continue, the NFL world watches closely. Diggs’ performance on the field has been instrumental in New England’s success, but the shadow of these allegations looms over what could be a deep playoff run.

The resolution in court will ultimately determine the long-term ramifications for one of the league’s most talented receivers. For now, both sides prepare for their respective battles—one in the courtroom, the other potentially on the gridiron in pursuit of a Super Bowl.