Stefon Diggs Acquitted of Strangulation and Assault Charges in Chef Altercation

A jury acquitted Stefon Diggs of strangulation and assault charges Tuesday in a case stemming from an alleged altercation with his female chef last December 2.

The two-day trial in Dedham centered on claims by Mila Adams that Diggs choked and assaulted her. Prosecutors bore the burden of proof, but the jury found it unmet.

On count one, strangulation or suffocation: not guilty. On count two, assault and battery: not guilty.

Judge Jeanmarie Carroll addressed the jurors after the verdict. "Jurors, I told you during this trial and in my instructions the verdict was your responsibility and your responsibility alone," she said in open court. "Jurors, I want to thank each of you for your careful attention and service throughout this trial. This case has involved a heightened level of attention. Despite that, you have remained focused on the evidence presented in this courtroom and the law as I instructed you."

No photos showed injuries. No video captured the alleged assault. No eyewitnesses came forward. Diggs' account, presented through his lawyer, denied any physical contact.

Adams struggled on the stand. She admitted deleting texts and acknowledged a sexual relationship with Diggs before he hired her as his chef. Her testimony drew rebukes from Carroll, who at one point threatened to strike it entirely.

Diggs did not testify. The NFL monitored the trial but offered no immediate comment on his status under the league's personal conduct policy.

The New England Patriots released Diggs in March as a salary cap move. The team parted ways with the wide receiver despite his 1,000-yard season and Super Bowl run. He has remained unsigned since.

Now 32, Diggs has topped 1,000 receiving yards in seven of the last eight seasons. The Bills, Texans and Patriots each moved on from him after one year over the past three seasons. His next team would mark his fourth in four years.

Teams like the Chiefs, Patriots, Dolphins, Saints, Raiders and Steelers need receiver help. The Raiders' top outside options include Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor and Jack Bech.

Diggs likely faces one-year offers with limited guarantees.