Stefon Diggs Confronts Dual Legal Challenges Amid NFL Career
Veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs, known for his on-field prowess in the National Football League, has recently garnered significant attention off the field due to two separate legal matters. These cases involve serious allegations from a former personal chef and a paternity dispute with an ex-girlfriend, unfolding over the past year and highlighting the complexities of high-profile athletes' personal lives.
Criminal Assault Allegations from Former Chef
One of the most pressing legal issues for Diggs stems from a December 2025 incident with his former personal chef, leading to criminal charges. According to court documents, the chef reported that an argument over unpaid wages escalated into a physical confrontation. She alleged that Diggs slapped her and attempted to choke her by placing his elbow around her neck, an act that reportedly left her struggling to breathe.
The incident was reported to police approximately two weeks after it allegedly occurred, prompting authorities to file charges against the wide receiver. These charges include felony strangulation and assault, underscoring the severity of the accusations. In February 2026, Diggs appeared in a Massachusetts court and entered a plea of not guilty to all charges.
His legal team has vigorously contested the claims, describing them as baseless and rooted in a financial dispute between Diggs and the employee. Diggs' attorney has consistently maintained the NFL star's innocence, expressing confidence that evidence will reveal a different narrative. The court has scheduled the next hearing for April 1, where further developments in this ongoing case are anticipated.
Resolved Paternity Lawsuit with Ex-Girlfriend
In addition to the criminal case, Diggs was involved in a civil paternity lawsuit with his ex-partner, Aileen Lopera. In 2024, while pregnant, Lopera filed the action seeking legal and physical custody of their child, along with financial support from Diggs for pregnancy and birth-related expenses. At the time, Diggs requested a genetic test to determine paternity.
The matter reached a resolution earlier this year after Lopera's legal team confirmed that a DNA test established Diggs as the father of her daughter, Charliee Harper Diggs-Lopera. Following this confirmation, Lopera filed papers in January 2026 to drop the lawsuit, indicating that the parties had reached a private settlement.
Her lawyer later stated that the goal is for both parents to collaborate in raising the child, suggesting an amicable resolution to the dispute. As of now, the paternity issue appears settled, allowing Diggs to focus on his professional career while navigating the remaining legal challenges.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings and Impact
While the paternity dispute has been resolved, the criminal assault case remains active and will proceed through the court system in the coming months. This situation draws attention to the broader implications for athletes in the public eye, balancing personal legal matters with their roles in professional sports.
Diggs' high profile in the NFL ensures that these cases are closely watched by fans and media alike, potentially affecting his reputation and career trajectory. As the legal process unfolds, stakeholders will monitor how these issues influence his performance and public perception.
