NFL Star Stefon Diggs Denies Assault Claims Following Private Chef Police Report
The NFL community was recently shaken by news involving one of its most prominent figures. Stefon Diggs, the star wide receiver for the New England Patriots, is currently facing serious legal challenges. According to reports from the Dedham Police Department in Massachusetts, Diggs has been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery. These charges stem from an alleged incident that occurred on December 2, 2025, involving a woman who worked as his private chef. While the allegations are severe, Diggs has maintained his innocence, with his legal team categorically denying all claims made against the athlete.
The Incident and the Police Narrative
The details of the case emerged after a woman came forward to report an encounter at Diggs’ residence in Dedham. According to the police narrative, the conflict began as a financial dispute. The woman had been employed as a private chef since July and claimed she was owed back pay. On the night of the incident, she alleged that Diggs entered her bedroom to discuss the ongoing text exchange regarding her compensation. The situation reportedly escalated quickly, with the woman alleging that Diggs became angry during the conversation.
The police report further details that the athlete allegedly smacked the woman across the face. When she attempted to push him away, the report claims Diggs used the crook of his elbow to choke her from behind. The alleged victim told officers that she experienced difficulty breathing and feared she might black out before he eventually released her and threw her onto a bed. While the woman noted redness on her chest at the time, no photos were taken to document the injuries immediately after the event. She was initially hesitant to file a report due to his high profile status but eventually decided to pursue criminal charges in late December.
Legal Defense and Diggs Categorical Denial
In response to the charges, Stefon Diggs and his legal counsel have been vocal about his innocence. His attorney, David Meier, released a statement asserting that the allegations are entirely unsubstantiated and uncorroborated. The defense team argues that the claims are a direct result of an unresolved financial dispute between an employer and an employee. They maintain that the incident described in the police report never actually occurred and was fabricated out of dissatisfaction over the financial disagreement.
During a recent court hearing in Dedham District Court, Diggs’ lawyers requested that the case files be sealed to prevent widespread publicity that could affect the player’s reputation and the integrity of the legal process. While the prosecution did not officially oppose the request, the judge expressed the importance of transparency in the judicial system. Furthermore, it was revealed in court that there had been discussions regarding a potential financial settlement to resolve the civil aspect of the dispute, though the criminal charges remain active as the case moves toward an arraignment scheduled for late January.
Impact on the New England Patriots and the NFL
The timing of these allegations is particularly sensitive for the New England Patriots. The team has recently clinched the AFC East title and is preparing for a significant playoff run. Diggs has been a central component of the team’s offensive success, providing a veteran presence and reliable hands for the offense. The Patriots organization released a statement acknowledging the accusations but also expressing their support for Diggs. They noted that the player had personally informed them of his denial and that the team would continue to cooperate with local authorities and the NFL throughout the investigation.
The NFL league office is also monitoring the situation closely. While the league has its own personal conduct policy, no immediate disciplinary action has been announced. Historically, the NFL waits for more information from legal proceedings before making a determination on suspensions or fines. For now, Diggs remains eligible to play, but the looming court dates create a cloud of uncertainty over the team’s postseason aspirations.
Broader Implications and Public Interest
Beyond the football field, the case has garnered significant public attention due to Diggs’ high profile lifestyle and recent personal milestones. The wide receiver recently welcomed a child with his partner, and the contrast between his personal successes and these legal troubles has sparked much discussion among fans and media outlets. The case highlights the complexities of employer employee relationships in high net worth households and the intense scrutiny that professional athletes face.
As the legal process unfolds, the focus will remain on the evidence presented in court. The "He Said, She Said" nature of the dispute, combined with the lack of immediate photographic evidence or witnesses, makes this a challenging case for both sides. The upcoming arraignment on January 23 will be a pivotal moment in determining the trajectory of the case. Until then, the sports world and the legal community will be watching closely to see how the truth is established.
Ultimately, this situation serves as a reminder of the serious nature of assault allegations and the importance of a thorough investigation. Whether the charges result in a conviction or an acquittal, the impact on Stefon Diggs’ career and public image will be significant. The New England Patriots must now navigate the distractions of the legal battle while trying to maintain their focus on the field, hoping to prove that they can handle both professional pressures and personal crises with equal resolve.