Stefon Diggs faces felony strangulation charge after private chef files assault accusations, arraignment set before AFC Championship Game

Stefon Diggs faces a felony strangulation charge after a private chef filed assault accusations against the New England Patriots star receiver. The alleged incident occurred on December 2, with court documents revealing the woman claims Diggs slapped her across the face and attempted to choke her during a dispute over unpaid wages. His arraignment is scheduled for January 23, just two days before the AFC Championship Game.

What the Police Report Details

According to the Dedham Police Department report, private chef Mila Adams told officers that on December 2, she and Diggs had been exchanging text messages about money she claimed he owed her. Adams stated she was hired in July to cook for Diggs throughout the entire NFL season and was staying in a guest room at his Massachusetts home.

The report indicates that when Diggs entered her unlocked bedroom, an argument escalated over unpaid compensation. Adams alleged that Diggs smacked her across the face, and when she attempted to push him away, he tried to choke her using his elbow around her neck.

Adams told police she feared she would black out during the choking incident. She said Diggs then threw her onto a bed before saying something to the effect of “Thought so” and walking out. The chef left the residence and stayed with a friend after the alleged assault.

The Timeline of the Accusation

Adams initially contacted police on December 16, more than two weeks after the alleged incident. According to the report, she was initially reluctant to press charges. However, she also reported receiving text messages from someone she believed was Diggs’ girlfriend, with messages saying “you don’t need to do all this. It’s not that big of a deal.”

By December 22, Adams decided to file criminal charges against the Patriots receiver. The financial dispute played a central role in the accusations, as Adams claimed Diggs owed her at least a month’s pay. When she returned to his home on December 9 to collect her belongings, Diggs’ assistant allegedly told her she needed to sign a nondisclosure agreement before receiving payment.

Adams refused to sign the NDA, further complicating the situation between the employee and the NFL star.

Stefon Diggs’ Legal Defense and Response

Aspect	Details
Charges	Felony strangulation or suffocation, misdemeanor assault and battery
Attorney Statement	David Meier – allegations are “unsubstantiated and uncorroborated”
Key Defense Point	Dispute stems from employee-employer financial disagreement, not assault
Arraignment Date	January 23, 2026 at Dedham District Court
2025 Season Stats	82 receptions, 970 yards, 4 touchdowns through Week 18

“Stefon Diggs categorically denies these allegations. They are unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated because they did not occur. The timing and motivation for making the allegations is crystal clear: they are the direct result of an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction. Stefon looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law.”

— David Meier, Attorney for Stefon Diggs

Patriots Organization and NFL Response

The New England Patriots quickly issued a statement of support following the charges announcement on December 30. The organization stated they are aware of the accusations and noted that Diggs has informed them he categorically denies all allegations.

“We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary,” the team said in their official statement. “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.”

The NFL also acknowledged the matter on Tuesday, stating they are aware of the case and have been in contact with the Patriots organization. The league said they have no further comment at this time as the legal proceedings are still underway.

What’s Next as Playoffs Approach?

Diggs remains an essential part of the Patriots offense, having caught 82 passes for 970 yards through the 2025 regular season. The team sits at 13-3 and is fighting for the AFC’s top seed heading into the playoffs. The timing of the January 23 arraignment creates a significant distraction, occurring just two days before the AFC Championship Game.

On Friday, January 3, Diggs spoke to media for the first time since the charges were filed. The receiver apologized for being unavailable and called it a “very emotional time.” He declined to answer questions about the specific allegations, citing the ongoing legal matter, and stated he would only discuss football-related topics. “I’m going to continue to be the guy I’ve been,” Diggs said. “Try to finish the season strong.”