Patriots Star Stefon Diggs Switches Legal Team Before Arraignment

Diggs faces felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault charges from alleged incident with personal chef

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs has changed his legal representation just a day before he was set to be arraigned on charges stemming from an allegedly violent incident with his personal chef in December. Diggs is facing a felony strangulation or suffocation charge and a misdemeanor assault and battery charge related to an encounter on December 2, 2025.

Why it matters

This case highlights the legal troubles professional athletes can face, even for alleged off-field incidents, and the importance of proper legal representation. Diggs is a high-profile player, and the charges could have significant implications for his career if proven true.

The details

According to the police report, the alleged victim, who identified herself as Diggs' personal chef, initially hesitated to file charges "due to his fame" but later provided a detailed statement describing the incident. She claimed that during a dispute over her pay, Diggs smacked her and placed his hands around her neck, causing her to struggle to breathe and feel lightheaded. She reported pain and difficulty swallowing after the alleged assault.

  • The alleged incident occurred on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, a day after the Patriots beat the New York Giants on 'Monday Night Football'.
  • Diggs was previously slated to face a judge on Friday, January 23, 2026, but the arraignment was pushed until after the Super Bowl.

The players

Stefon Diggs

A wide receiver for the New England Patriots who is facing felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault charges from an alleged incident with his personal chef.

Sara Silva

The attorney with Silva Kettlewell and Pignatelli LLP who has taken over Diggs' legal representation.

Michael DiStefano

Diggs' previous attorney who has been replaced by Sara Silva.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.