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Mike Reiss
New England Patriots receiver Stefon Diggs is confronted with a felony charge of strangulation and a misdemeanor assault charge stemming from an alleged incident on December 2.
A motion hearing occurred at 11 a.m. ET on Tuesday at the Dedham District Court in Massachusetts. WCVB-TV reports that a judge is deliberating whether to seal the court documents ahead of Diggs’ arraignment scheduled for January 23.
«The New England Patriots are aware of the allegations against Stefon Diggs. He has communicated to the organization that he vehemently denies these accusations. We stand by Stefon,» stated the Patriots. «We will continue to collect information and will fully cooperate with the relevant authorities and the NFL as needed. Out of respect for everyone involved, and given that this is a matter under legal scrutiny, we will refrain from further comments at this stage.»
As noted by the Boston Globe, Diggs’ attorney, Michael R. DiStefano, mentioned that there is a «significant risk of extensive publicity» that could negatively influence the case unless all details are kept confidential.
The judge is currently contemplating whether to impound the case documents. Diggs’ defense team is reportedly pursuing a financial settlement regarding the incident.
Diggs, 32, is the leading receiver for the Patriots with 82 catches for 970 yards and four touchdowns.
The Patriots (13-3) are set to play their final regular-season game against the Miami Dolphins this Sunday, after which they will enter the AFC playoffs.
