New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing criminal charges of felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery in Massachusetts in connection with an alleged incident involving his former private chef. Court records show the charges stem from an event on December 2, 2025, in Dedham, Massachusetts, where a woman working as Diggs’ chef reported an altercation with the player to police. 

According to the police narrative detailed in court filings, the alleged dispute began with a disagreement over pay. The woman told authorities that she was struck and that she experienced difficulty breathing during the alleged encounter, which she described as involving pressure around her neck. She later chose to file a complaint with law enforcement. 

Diggs, 32, has denied all allegations, and his legal team has described the charges as unsubstantiated and tied to a financial disagreement. The New England Patriots organization has acknowledged the matter, saying it is aware of the accusations and is cooperating with authorities and the NFL. 

A judge in Dedham District Court is considering whether to keep parts of the police report and related documents sealed ahead of Diggs’ scheduled arraignment on January 23, 2026. The arraignment date falls just before the NFL’s AFC Championship Game. The court may also consider a defense request to postpone the arraignment. 

The NFL has confirmed it is aware of the situation and remains in communication with the Patriots. Diggs has been a key contributor to the team’s offense this season, leading the club in receptions and receiving yards. 

Sources: ESPN, Yahoo Sports, Fox News