The New England Patriots' biggest free agency signing this past offseason has run into some trouble off the field leading up to Week 18.
New England Patriots star wide receiver Stefon Diggs has found himself in some hot water on Tuesday afternoon. The team's standout veteran is charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery charges stemming from an incident on Tuesday, Dec. 2.
The incident took place the day after the Patriots' dominant performance against the New York Giants on Monday Night Football, which led into the team's bye week.
Diggs’ attorney, Michael DiStefano, made a remote appearance in Dedham District Court on Tuesday morning and presented to the court to have the police report impounded, arguing that the details should remain sealed.
DiStefano also revealed to the court that Diggs is working to resolve the dispute outside of court, as the NFL star has offered to compensate for the incident financially.
“As we speak, they’re working to come to an agreement on that,” DiStefano told the court, as reported by James Cullity of Fox 25 News in Boston.
The judge said she’d take the request into consideration and would issue a ruling “shortly" on the matter.
Arraignment for the veteran Patriots wideout is scheduled for Friday, January 23rd. The Patriots, who clinched the AFC East Championship on Sunday, could be in the midst of postseason play at this time. January 23rd is two days before the scheduled AFC Championship game.
Time will tell if this off-the-field matter affects that situation.
A request was also made to extend Diggs' arraignment until March, a move the judge has also considered.
Since the court hearing went public, the Patriots have released a statement saying they are very aware of what is happening with Diggs at the moment.
“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,” the statement read. “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 welcomed a baby boy with rapper Cardi B back in November and has helped the Patriots succeed in his first year with the team, recording 82 receptions, 970 yards, and 4 touchdowns.
Details on the early December incident are not available at this time. The story remains developing at this time.