As fans were celebrating an AFC East run, a separate legal clock was already ticking. In late December, reports surfaced alleging an assault involving Stefon Diggs—and the internet filled the gaps with rumors.
Searchers want one thing: what actually happened.
This explainer separates verified facts from viral claims, explains the specific charges being discussed, and outlines what the case could mean for Diggs’ NFL availability—without speculation.
FACT VS. FICTION (Quick Read)
| Claim | Status |
|---|---|
| Diggs was arrested | No public record of an arrest |
| A police report exists | Yes (allegation filed) |
| Charges automatically mean suspension | No (league review required) |
| Cardi B is part of the case | No (unrelated) |
The December 2nd Incident: Allegations from the Private Chef
What’s alleged:
According to a police filing referenced by multiple outlets, a private chef reported an altercation with Diggs tied to a text-message dispute over compensation. The complaint describes a confrontation that escalated physically.
Why the report appeared later:
The filing surfaced weeks after the date cited (Dec 2), which is not uncommon in cases where:
- parties attempt informal resolution, or
- counsel advises documentation after medical or witness review.
What’s documented vs. rumored:
- Documented: a dispute over pay; an alleged physical encounter; a formal report.
- Not documented: an on-scene arrest; body-cam footage; immediate charges filed in open court.
Analyzing the Charges: Felony Strangulation vs. Misdemeanor Assault
This is where precision matters.
What “Felony Strangulation” Means (Massachusetts context)
Under Massachusetts law, assault and battery by strangulation can be charged as a felony if prosecutors believe evidence supports that specific act. Penalties can reach up to ~2.5 years depending on circumstances and prior record.
How That Differs from Misdemeanor Assault
- Felony: higher burden; specific elements must be proven (e.g., impeded breathing).
- Misdemeanor: broader category; lower maximum penalties.
Arrest vs. Summons
In Massachusetts, not every allegation triggers an arrest. Courts can proceed via summons while evidence is evaluated. As of publication, no arrest has been publicly confirmed.
The Defense’s Response: “A Financial Dispute, Not a Crime”
Attorneys for Diggs have pushed back strongly, characterizing the matter as a civil disagreement that spiraled online.
- Defense counsel Michael DiStefano and David Meier (as quoted by outlets) emphasize:
- the origin as a payment dispute,
- no immediate police action at the time,
- and discussions toward resolution rather than criminal intent.
What this means procedurally:
Statements like these aim to frame the issue for prosecutors before charging decisions—common in high-profile cases.
Fact-Check: Is Cardi B Involved in the Stefon Diggs Case?
Short answer: No.
Why the rumor spread
Search spikes often merge unrelated stories. Diggs’ dating history trended separately, then became entangled with the allegation cycle.
Reality vs. TikTok Rumors
- Reality: The allegation centers on a private-chef dispute.
- Rumor: Celebrity relationship drama implies involvement.
- Verdict: Unrelated.
For clarity, Diggs’ past relationship chatter with Cardi B has no connection to the police filing described.
Why Cardi B Is Trending with Diggs Right Now
Algorithms reward overlap. Two trending names + timing = conflation. That’s it.
NFL & Patriots Status: Will Diggs Play in the Playoffs?
Here’s what governs availability.
NFL Personal Conduct Policy (Plain English)
The league reviews:
- credibility of allegations,
- stage of legal proceedings,
- risk to league integrity.
Commissioner’s Exempt List
Used sparingly when:
- a player faces serious charges, and
- continued play could undermine investigations.
Key point:
Placement on the list is not automatic and not a judgment of guilt.
Team Position
As of now, neither the league nor the New England Patriots has announced disciplinary action. Teams typically defer until prosecutors clarify next steps.
LIVE TIMELINE (What We Know)
- Dec 2: Alleged incident date cited in filings
- Mid-Dec: Report becomes known publicly
- Dec 30: Widespread media coverage; rumors spike
- Jan 23 (reported): Arraignment window discussed by outlets (subject to court scheduling)
Dates can shift; courts control calendars.
Why This Is Trending Now (The “Why Now” Factor)
- End-of-year news lull amplifies any legal filing
- Playoff implications raise fan urgency
- Social media compresses nuance into headlines
What Happens Next (Process, Not Predictions)
- Prosecutorial review of evidence
- Charging decision (or no charge)
- Court scheduling (summons/arraignment if applicable)
- NFL review parallel to legal process
Until Step 2, claims beyond the filing are speculation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Has Stefon Diggs been arrested?
No arrest has been publicly confirmed.
Who is the woman in the Stefon Diggs police report?
Reports identify a private chef who alleges a dispute related to compensation.
What are the penalties for felony strangulation in Massachusetts?
If charged and proven, penalties can reach up to ~2.5 years, depending on circumstances.
Will Stefon Diggs be suspended by the NFL?
Not automatically. The league evaluates cases individually under its conduct policy.
Are Stefon Diggs and Cardi B still together?
Relationship status is separate and unrelated to the allegation.
Bottom Line
Right now, this is a legal allegation under review, not a resolved case. The difference matters—for the courts, the league, and the public.
The smartest move for fans is to follow verified updates and ignore viral shortcuts.
