BOSTON (AP) — New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs appeared in Dedham District Court on Friday, February 13, 2026, where he pleaded not guilty to felony strangulation and other criminal charges related to an altercation with his personal chef. The 32-year-old athlete's arraignment had been postponed from its original date of January 23 to allow him to participate in Super Bowl LX, where the Patriots were ultimately defeated by the Seattle Seahawks with a score of 29-13.
During the brief court proceeding, which lasted under five minutes, Judge Jeanmarie Carroll released Diggs on personal recognizance, stipulating that he maintains no contact with the alleged victim. A pretrial hearing has been set for April 1. Diggs, dressed in a white shirt and tie under a gray sweater, stood beside his attorney and chose not to make any statements to the press following the hearing.
The charges stem from an incident that took place on December 2, 2025, when the chef reported to police that an argument had erupted over unpaid wages. According to court records, during this confrontation at Diggs' residence, he allegedly "smacked her across the face" and then "tried to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck," resulting in the chef experiencing difficulty in breathing and a fear of losing consciousness. Although she initially hesitated to pursue legal charges, the chef eventually decided to file a report on December 16, 2025.
In response to the accusations, Diggs' attorney stated that the player "categorically denies these allegations,” describing them as unsubstantiated and stemming from a financial dispute. Diggs has been charged with one count of felony strangulation or suffocation and one count of misdemeanor assault and battery, both of which carry serious legal ramifications.
The New England Patriots have since issued a statement expressing support for Diggs amidst these ongoing legal issues. The incident comes shortly after Diggs signed a lucrative three-year contract worth $69 million with the Patriots during the off-season, proving to be a critical asset for the team, particularly in their run for the AFC East title. Prior to joining the Patriots, Diggs was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015 and had notable tenures with the Buffalo Bills and a short stint with the Houston Texans in 2024.
The legal proceedings and the charges against Diggs have drawn considerable media attention, highlighting the complexities of personal disputes involving public figures and the repercussions they may face. All eyes will be on the upcoming pretrial hearing as the case unfolds.
