A judge has agreed to postpone the arraignment of New England Patriots star Stefon Diggs on assault charges of Chef Mila Adams until after Super Bowl LX, a decision that allows the Pro Bowl wide receiver to remain fully available for the remainder of the NFL season.
Diggs, 32, was originally scheduled to appear in Dedham District Court on Jan. 23 on charges that include felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery in connection with an alleged Dec. 2 incident involving his personal chef. The arraignment has been rescheduled for Feb. 13, five days after the Super Bowl, at the request of his attorneys.
The judge’s order came after Diggs’ lawyer argued that the earlier date conflicted with a “previously scheduled professional commitment” — namely the Patriots’ pursuit of a playoff run. Prosecutors did not object to the delay, according to court records.
The change means Diggs can play in the team’s upcoming postseason games, including the AFC Championship and, if the Patriots advance, Super Bowl LX, without the distraction of a pending court appearance.
The charges stem from an alleged dispute with a personal chef over pay. In filings, Diggs’ attorney has strongly denied the allegations, calling them “unsubstantiated” and the result of a financial disagreement that was not resolved to the chef’s satisfaction.
The postponement has drawn attention across the league, with some observers noting the timing could be significant for both the Patriots and broader conversations about how the NFL handles players facing legal issues during key parts of the season.
The arraignment now set for Feb. 13 comes days after the conclusion of the NFL’s championship game in Santa Clara, Calif., and will give Diggs an opportunity to address the charges once the season is over. Both sides are expected to appear in court at that time.
Representatives for Diggs and the attorney handling the case did not immediately respond to requests for additional comment.
Flip the pages for photos of Mila Adams and her police report.
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