Niamh Shackleton
New England Patriots star Stefon Diggs is facing felony charges.
The 32-year-old, who is currently dating music star Cardi B, has been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanour assault and battery.
The charges against the NFL player were filed yesterday (December 29) in Dedham District Court, Massachusetts, The Independent reports.
Diggs 'categorically denies the allegations', the Patriots said in a statement addressing the matter.
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The club's full statement reads, per ESPN: "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.
"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."
The charges relate to an alleged incident that took place on December 2, and Diggs is due to be arraigned on January 23.
His arraignment will be just two days before the AFC Championship Game on Sunday, January 25.
Diggs' lawyer, Michael DiStefano, has requested that the details of the police report about the alleged December 2 incident remain sealed.
DiStefano also revealed today that Diggs has made a financial offer to the alleged victim.
The charges against Diggs come shortly after he welcomed his first child with 'Bodak Yellow' rapper Cardi B. She also shares three kids with her ex, Offset.
Confirming the news of the child's arrival, Cardi B penned on Instagram in a lengthy post in November: "My life has always been a combination of different chapters and different seasons. My last chapter was the beginning of a new season. Starting over is never easy, but it’s been so worth it!
"I brought new music and a new album to the world! A new baby into my world, and one more reason to be the best version of me, one more reason to love me more than anything else or anyone else so I can continue giving my babies the love and life they deserve."
A few days later, she shared photos of her newborn son. In one snap, the tot was seen swaddled in a Patriots blanket.
The celebrity pair are yet to publicly reveal the baby's name.
UNILAD have approached Diggs' rep for further comment.