Stefon Diggs, New England Patriots wide receiver, denies felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from a December incident in Massachusetts, according to court documents—a development bringing fresh scrutiny as the Patriots approach the postseason.
According to WCVB-TV, which cited records from Dedham District Court, Diggs has been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery. These charges are related to an alleged incident on Dec. 2. The documents were first reported by the Boston-based CNN affiliate. Specific details surrounding the accusations have not been publicly released.
The New England Patriots acknowledged the charges in a statement provided to CNN Sports. They emphasized that Diggs has firmly denied the allegations. The organization is monitoring the situation while cooperating with authorities.
“We are aware of the accusations regarding Stefon Diggs,” the team said.
“Stefon has informed us that he categorically denies the allegations. We support him,” the statement added.
The Patriots intend to remain engaged with law enforcement and league officials as the legal process unfolds.
“We will gather information and cooperate fully with authorities and the NFL as needed,” the statement continued. “Given the ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.”
The NFL also confirmed it was aware of the situation. A league spokesman told CNN Sports that the NFL has been in contact with the Patriots but declined to comment further.
“We are aware of the matter and have contacted the club,” the spokesman said. “No further comment at this time.”
Diggs, 32, is scheduled to be arraigned on Jan. 23, according to WCVB. This date falls just two days before the AFC Championship Game. The timing places the case squarely in the spotlight as the league approaches its most consequential stretch of the season. An arraignment is a procedural step in which charges are formally presented and a plea is entered. It does not determine guilt or innocence.
Court officials have not yet indicated whether additional hearings will take place before the arraignment. Prosecutors have not publicly expanded on the nature of the allegations. It remains unclear whether any court documents will be sealed or made publicly available before that date.
The case comes during a season in which Diggs has played a central role in New England’s resurgence. After joining the Patriots ahead of the season, the four-time Pro Bowl receiver quickly became the focal point of the offense. Through 16 games, Diggs leads the team with 82 receptions and 970 receiving yards. He has scored four touchdowns.
New England enters the final week of the regular season with a 13-3 record and is preparing for a playoff run. That run could include a deep postseason push. The Patriots’ final regular-season game is set for this weekend. The team has already secured a spot in the AFC playoffs.
While Diggs remains active with the team, the NFL’s personal conduct policy allows the league to review matters independently of the criminal justice system. The league has not announced whether it has opened a formal investigation. It is also unclear whether any disciplinary action could be considered before the legal process plays out.
For now, both the Patriots and the NFL have struck a cautious tone. They are emphasizing due process and declining to speculate on potential outcomes. Diggs has not spoken publicly about the allegations beyond the statements released through the team.
As the Patriots prepare for the postseason, Diggs’ legal situation adds uncertainty to a season of on-field success. More clarity is expected after his arraignment.
