NFL player Stefon Diggs faces felony strangulation charge

New England Patriots player Stefon Diggs is facing charges of felony strangulation and a lower-level assault charge, stemming from an alleged 2 December incident.

Mr Diggs is a star wide receiver for one of the US’s most prominent professional football teams.

Mr Diggs “categorically denies these allegations,” his attorney, David Meier, said in a statement provided to the BBC. He described the accusations as “unsubstantiated” and “uncorroborated”.

Mr Meier said the allegations were “the direct result of an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction”.

Mr Diggs was accused by a woman who worked as his chef, the Boston Globe reported.

“The New England Patriots are aware of the accusations that have been made regarding Stefon Diggs,” the Patriots said in a statement.

“Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon,” the team continued. “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.”

A local Massachusetts court will hold an arraignment for Mr Diggs – in which he will hear the charges against him and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty – on 23 January.

In March, Mr Diggs signed a 3-year deal with the Patriots worth $69m (£51m).

Mr Diggs and his girlfriend, the rapper Cardi B, recently welcomed a baby boy.

The BBC has contacted the Dedham, Massachusetts police department for further details.