The assault trial of NFL wide receiver Stefon Diggs officially kicked off on Monday, May 4, with jury selection underway in Dedham, Massachusetts. The high-profile case centers on allegations that Diggs assaulted and strangled a female chef he had previously employed.
According to reports from the Associated Press, WCVB, and NBC Boston, seven jurors were seated in Norfolk County District Court as proceedings began. Opening statements are expected to follow shortly after the jury is fully empaneled.
The charges stem from an incident in December, when Diggs was arrested and later pleaded not guilty to felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault. The accuser, who worked as Diggs' personal chef, claims she confronted him about unpaid back wages before the alleged attack. According to an incident report obtained by PEOPLE, the accuser stated that Diggs "tried to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck."
Diggs' legal team has firmly denied the allegations, stating that he "categorically denies the charges." The wide receiver remained silent as he entered the courthouse Monday morning, declining to speak with reporters.
This legal drama comes on the heels of a turbulent offseason for the 31-year-old receiver. In March, the New England Patriots released Diggs after just one season—a move that freed up valuable salary cap space for the team. Despite the abrupt end to his time in New England, Diggs took to Instagram to express gratitude, writing, "THANK YOU for a hell of a year. We family forever."
Diggs' lone season with the Patriots was memorable, as the team advanced to Super Bowl LX before falling to the Seattle Seahawks. Currently an unsigned free agent, his future in the NFL remains uncertain as he navigates the legal proceedings.
As the trial progresses, all eyes will be on the courtroom in Dedham. For fans and followers of the sport, this case serves as a stark reminder that even the brightest stars on the field can face serious challenges off it. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.