Patriots’ Stefon Diggs Denies Assault Allegation in Court Plea
On February 13, 2026, Stefon Diggs, the New England Patriots wide receiver, pleaded not guilty to multiple criminal charges, including felony strangulation. This plea was made during his arraignment at the Dedham District Court in Massachusetts.
Background of the Allegations
The allegations stem from a dispute between Diggs and his personal chef. The incident reportedly occurred on December 2, 2025, at Diggs’ home. According to court records, the chef claimed they argued over unpaid wages.
- Chef’s account: She alleged that Diggs “smacked her across the face” and “tried to choke her” using his elbow.
- Result: She stated that this left her feeling short of breath.
Attorney’s Stance
Diggs’ attorney, Mitchell Schuster, has strongly denied the allegations. He described them as unsubstantiated and suggested they arose from a financial dispute. Schuster expressed confidence that the evidence would ultimately demonstrate Diggs’ innocence.
Football Season Context
The arraignment was postponed to allow Diggs to participate in Super Bowl LX, after which he was required to attend court. His next court date is set for April 1, 2026, for a pretrial hearing.
Response from the Patriots
The New England Patriots have publicly supported Diggs amid the accusations. They believe in his innocence and his ability to clear his name. Schuster noted that he does not anticipate a plea deal, affirming Diggs’ position that he is not guilty of any wrongdoing.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 2, 2025 | Alleged incident between Diggs and his chef |
| December 16, 2025 | Chef reports the incident to police |
| February 13, 2026 | Diggs pleads not guilty in court |
| April 1, 2026 | Next pretrial hearing scheduled |
As the legal proceedings develop, Diggs remains focused on his career with the Patriots, aiming to prove his innocence and continue playing in the NFL.