New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing serious legal trouble, including a felony charge of strangulation and a misdemeanor assault charge tied to an alleged incident on Dec. 2.
A motion hearing was held at 11 a.m. ET on Tuesday at Dedham District Court in Massachusetts. According to WCVB-TV, a judge is considering whether court documents should be impounded ahead of Diggs’ arraignment, which is scheduled for Jan. 23 — the Friday before the AFC Championship Game.
In a statement, the Patriots acknowledged the allegations and said Diggs strongly denies them.
“The New England Patriots are aware of the accusations that have been made regarding Stefon Diggs,” the team said. “Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary. Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.”
According to the Boston Globe, Diggs’ attorney, Michael R. DiStefano, argued that releasing details of the case could create “substantial risk of widespread publicity” that could unfairly influence the proceedings. He requested that the records remain sealed.
The Globe also reported that Diggs’ defense team is working toward a possible monetary resolution related to the incident.
Diggs, 32, has been a key player for New England this season, leading the team with 82 receptions for 970 yards and four touchdowns.
The Patriots, who sit at 13-3, will close out the regular season Sunday against the Miami Dolphins before heading into the AFC playoffs.
