Viral Arrest Hoax Surrounds Patriots' Stefon Diggs Hours Before Super Bowl Clash
A social media storm erupted just hours before the highly anticipated Super Bowl LX matchup between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, centered on star wide receiver Stefon Diggs. A post on X, claiming the 32-year-old athlete had been arrested for "aggravated assault on a robot" outside a Santa Clara hotel, rapidly gained traction, amassing over 982,700 views and causing concern among fans.
The post, however, was quickly identified as a parody from a satirical account, designed to mock the intense media scrutiny surrounding high-profile athletes. Despite its humorous intent, the viral nature of the claim highlighted the fragile public perception of Diggs, who is currently embroiled in a serious legal battle.
Real Legal Troubles: Felony Charges from December 2025 Incident
While the arrest rumor was false, Diggs faces authentic criminal charges stemming from an alleged incident at his Dedham, Massachusetts home on December 2, 2025. According to reports, the NFL star was charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery following a dispute with his former personal chef over unpaid wages.
TMZ reported that the chef accused Diggs of choking her with his elbow, slapping her, and throwing her onto a bed during the altercation. She filed a police report two weeks later, on December 16, leading to formal charges being filed shortly after. Diggs and his legal team have consistently denied all allegations, but the case remains active and ongoing.
Court Proceedings Delayed to Accommodate Super Bowl Participation
Initially scheduled for January, Diggs successfully secured a delay in his arraignment, allowing him to compete in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California without immediate court interference. The case is now listed for February 13, with the NFL yet to review the situation or impose any disciplinary action, which is expected pending the legal outcome.
Personal Life: Diggs as a Father of Three
Amid the professional and legal turmoil, Diggs' personal life has also drawn attention. The athlete is reportedly a father of three children with different mothers:
- His first child, a daughter named Nova, was born in 2016 to hip-hop artist Tyler-Marie.
- In April 2025, model Aileen Lopera gave birth to his second daughter, Charliee Harper Diggs-Lopera.
- Most recently, in November 2025, Grammy-winning artist Cardi B welcomed a son with Diggs, prompting her to share an emotional Instagram post about motherhood and personal growth.
This blend of viral misinformation and substantive legal issues underscores the complex landscape facing modern sports celebrities, where off-field controversies can quickly overshadow on-field achievements.