BYU Football Player Parker Kingston Charged with Felony Rape

BYU football player Parker Kingston has been charged with felony rape. The charge follows a police investigation that lasted a year. Kingston is now in jail and cannot get bail.
By Newsroom | Crime, Sports |

BYU football player Parker Kingston faces a serious felony rape charge following a year-long police inquiry. The accusation stems from an alleged assault reported by a woman last year. Kingston has been taken into custody and is currently held without bail as legal proceedings begin.

BYU football star charged with felony rape following year-long police investigation into hospital assault claims - 1

Details of the Charge

BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston, 21, has been charged with first-degree felony rape in Washington County, Utah. The charge was filed by the Washington County Attorney's Office on Tuesday.

BYU football star charged with felony rape following year-long police investigation into hospital assault claims - 2

  • The alleged incident is reported to have occurred on February 13, 2025, in St. George, Utah.

  • The St. George Police Department conducted the investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing parties involved.

  • The case was then turned over to the Washington County Attorney's Office for review.

  • Kingston was taken into custody and is being held in the Washington County Jail without bail.

  • His initial court appearance is scheduled for Friday, February 14, 2025, in Fifth District Court.

Investigation Timeline and Reporting

The investigation into the alleged assault began in February 2025 after the woman, who was 20 years old at the time, reported the incident to officers at St. George Regional Hospital. She sought medical treatment and then reported the alleged sexual assault. The police department then initiated a formal investigation, which involved gathering digital and forensic evidence, and conducting interviews.

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BYU football star charged with felony rape following year-long police investigation into hospital assault claims - 3

Parker Kingston's Background

Kingston is a senior wide receiver for the BYU Cougars football team. He is a graduate of Roy High School and was BYU's leading receiver last season, recording 66 receptions for 924 yards and five touchdowns. He was expected to be a primary receiver for the upcoming season.

BYU football star charged with felony rape following year-long police investigation into hospital assault claims - 4

BYU's Response

BYU Athletics has stated that the university takes allegations seriously and will cooperate with law enforcement. Due to privacy laws and university practices for students, BYU will not be providing further comment on the case.

Broader Context and Similar Incidents

This case follows another high-profile allegation against a BYU football player. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff was previously accused of sexual assault in a civil lawsuit. Retzlaff's case was dismissed, but he left BYU due to a suspension for violating the university's honor code, which prohibits premarital sex. The Kingston case has brought renewed attention to issues of athlete accountability and Title IX enforcement on university campuses.

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  • Key Dates:

  • February 13, 2025: Alleged sexual assault occurred.

  • February 2025: Alleged victim reported the assault to hospital and police.

  • February 2025 - Present: Year-long police investigation by St. George Police Department.

  • Tuesday, [Date of Filing]: Washington County Attorney's Office filed felony rape charge.

  • Wednesday, [Date of Arrest]: Parker Kingston taken into custody.

  • Friday, February 14, 2025: Scheduled initial court appearance.

  • Actors:

  • Parker Kingston: Accused BYU wide receiver.

  • Alleged Victim: Woman who reported the assault.

  • Washington County Attorney's Office: Filed the charge.

  • St. George Police Department: Conducted the investigation.

  • BYU Athletics: University athletic department.

  • The core of the accusation is a reported sexual assault that allegedly took place on February 13, 2025.

  • An extensive, year-long investigation by local police preceded the filing of the felony rape charge.

  • Kingston's status as a prominent athlete for BYU appears to be a significant element in the public's attention to this case.

  • The university has issued a statement emphasizing cooperation with law enforcement and adherence to privacy protocols.

Evidence Presented

  • Official Statement: The Washington County Attorney's Office issued a news release detailing the charge and the initiation of the investigation.

  • Police Reports: The St. George Police Department compiled evidence, including digital and forensic data, and conducted interviews as part of their nearly year-long investigation.

  • Hospital Report: The alleged victim reportedly reported the sexual assault to officers at St. George Regional Hospital after seeking medical treatment.

  • Arrest and Custody: Kingston is confirmed to be in custody at the Washington County Jail without bail.

  • Court Scheduling: An initial court appearance is scheduled, indicating formal legal proceedings have commenced.

University Policies and Athlete Accountability

The case highlights how universities handle allegations of serious misconduct against student-athletes. BYU's honor code, which prohibits premarital sex, could have led to disciplinary action for violations independent of criminal charges. The university's public stance emphasizes cooperation with law enforcement and a serious approach to allegations, while acknowledging privacy constraints. The comparison to the Jake Retzlaff case suggests a pattern of serious allegations within the BYU football program, raising questions about institutional response and athlete conduct.

The filing of a first-degree felony rape charge carries severe legal consequences. Kingston faces a significant prison sentence if convicted. The legal process will involve standard procedures, including arraignment, potential plea negotiations, and possibly a trial. Both the prosecution and the defense will present evidence and arguments. The emphasis on due process ensures that Kingston has the right to legal representation and a fair hearing, even as the case proceeds under public scrutiny.

Next Steps

  • Court Appearance: Kingston is scheduled for an initial court appearance.

  • Legal Defense: Kingston's legal team will likely review the evidence and prepare a defense strategy.

  • Prosecution: The Washington County Attorney's Office will proceed with building its case.

  • University Review: BYU will continue to monitor the legal proceedings and may undertake its own internal review based on university policies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Parker Kingston accused of?
Parker Kingston is accused of felony rape. The charge comes after a police investigation.
Q: Where and when did this happen?
The alleged event took place in St. George, Utah, on February 13, 2025. Police investigated for about a year.
Q: What is happening to Parker Kingston now?
He has been arrested and is in the Washington County Jail. He is being held without bail.
Q: What is BYU's response?
BYU Athletics said they take these claims seriously and will work with the police. They will not say more because of privacy rules.