New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing felony strangulation and a lesser assault charge over an alleged incident on 2 December.
Diggs’ attorney, David Meier, told the BBC that his client “categorically denies these allegations,” describing them as “unsubstantiated” and “uncorroborated.” He said the claims stem from “an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction.”
According to the Boston Globe, the allegations were made by a woman who worked as Diggs’ personal chef.
The Patriots issued a statement saying, “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 is scheduled to appear in a Massachusetts court on 23 January for his arraignment, where he will formally hear the charges and enter a plea.
The wide receiver signed a three-year, $69m (£51m) contract with the Patriots in March. He and his girlfriend, rapper Cardi B, recently welcomed their first child.
The BBC has reached out to the Dedham, Massachusetts police department for additional information.
