Patriots Star Stefon Diggs Facing Assault And Strangulation Charges: Report

DEDHAM, MA — New England Patriots Wide Receiver Stefon Diggs is facing both felony and misdemeanor charges related to an incident that happened earlier this month, according to a report from Boston 25 News.

Diggs has officially been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation, along with misdemeanor assault and battery stemming from the undisclosed occurrence on Tuesday, Dec. 2, one day after the Patriots defeated the New York Giants in a primetime matchup.

Diggs' attorney, Michael DiStefano, said in Dedham District Court on Tuesday that his client is working to reach a financial settlement with the alleged victim in the case, and that the police report of the incident should not be made public. The judge is reportedly expected to make a ruling on DiStefano's argument soon, which also included delaying Diggs' arraignment until March. However, Diggs' arraignment is now scheduled for Friday, Jan. 23, after court documents originally had it planned for Tuesday.

The Patriots released a statement following the news of the charges, saying Diggs has the organization's full support and that he has denied the allegations against him.

"The New England Patriots are aware of the accusations that have been made regarding Stefon Diggs. 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."

Diggs was drafted in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft out of the University of Maryland by the Minnesota Vikings. He has put together a borderline-hall-of-fame career throughout the last decade playing for four organizations. In his first season with the Patriots, he has caught 82 passes for 970 yards and four touchdowns, including a 100-yard performance just two days prior in a win over the New York Jets. The Maryland native is a father of six. His most recent child, whom he shares with girlfriend and rapper Cardi B, was born last month.

"We are aware of the matter and have been in contact with the club," the NFL said in a statement. "We have no further comment at this time."

Read more at Boston 25 News.