Stefon Diggs Addresses Media Amid Criminal Charges
Overview of the Incident
Stefon Diggs, the star wide receiver for the New England Patriots, spoke publicly on Friday for the first time since facing criminal charges related to an incident with a personal chef that occurred on December 2 in Dedham, Massachusetts. The allegations have cast a shadow over Diggs as the Patriots head into the playoffs.
Diggs’ Comments to the Media
In a press conference held in the Patriots’ locker room, Diggs expressed his regret for not being available to the media in recent days, describing the situation as “very emotional.” He stated, “It’s definitely an open case so I can’t even say anything about it,” indicating the legal complexities surrounding the charges. When asked about his football performance, he emphasized his commitment to finish the season strong, saying, “We all deal with life stuff, family stuff… you band together, you lean on your brothers.”
Charges Against Stefon Diggs
Diggs is facing serious charges, including felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery. According to court documents, the allegations stemmed from a financial dispute between Diggs and his personal chef, who claims she was owed mstarty. In a report filed with Dedham polstart, the chef described a confrontation where she alleges Diggs smacked her and attempted to choke her during an argument. Notably, the polstart report indicates that the chef did not provide photographic evidence of any injuries.
Diggs has denied these allegations through his attorney, David Meier, who characterized the claims as “unsubstantiated” and a result of a financial dispute that was not settled to the chef’s satisfaction. “Stefon looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law,” Meier stated, highlighting the upcoming arraignment set for January 23, just days before the AFC Championship Game.
Team Response and Upcoming Challenges
The New England Patriots organization has publicly supported Diggs, stating, “We support Stefon.” As the team prepares for their final regular-season game against the Miami Dolphins, they hold a chance to secure the top seed in the AFC with a victory and a Denver Broncos loss.
Related Allegations Against Christian Barmore
In another troubling development, teammate Christian Barmore, a defensive tackle, is facing domestic assault charges stemming from a separate incident involving his pregnant girlfriend. The charges allege that Barmore threw her to the ground during an argument about the air conditioning settings. Barmore has not commented on the specific allegations but expressed a focus on the upcoming game against Miami. His arraignment is scheduled for February 3, 2026.
Attorney David Meier, who represents both Diggs and Barmore, released a statement asserting confidence in the evidence, stating that “no criminal conduct took place” and expressing hope for a resolution in both cases.
As the Patriots look towards the playoffs, the impending legal issues surrounding key players add an unexpected layer of complexity to their season.