A Promising Athlete Faces Serious Legal Accusations
Brigham Young University (BYU) has confirmed that Parker Kingston, a standout wide receiver for their football team, is no longer enrolled at the university. This development follows his arrest and subsequent charge with first-degree felony rape. Kingston was a key player for BYU, leading the team in receptions and receiving yards last season. The legal proceedings against him have now intersected with his academic and athletic career, raising significant questions about the athlete's future and the university's response.
Timeline of Events and Key Figures
The charges against Parker Kingston stem from an alleged incident that reportedly occurred in February. Prosecutors in Washington County, Utah, initiated formal charges on Wednesday. Kingston, 21 years old, was arrested on Tuesday and is currently being held without bail in St. George, Utah. He made his initial court appearance on Friday.
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Key entities involved include:
Brigham Young University (BYU): The private educational institution where Kingston was a student and athlete.
Washington County Attorney’s Office: The prosecuting body that filed the felony rape charge.
Parker Kingston: The accused athlete.
The Accuser: A woman who was 20 years old at the time of the alleged assault.
Details of the Allegations
According to court documents and statements from prosecutors, the charge of first-degree felony rape involves an alleged assault that took place at the accuser's home in February. The affidavit indicates that the woman told investigators she had explicitly communicated her lack of consent to Kingston before he came to her house. Furthermore, she reported telling him to stop on multiple occasions when he initiated sexual activity. Police have been gathering digital and forensic evidence and have interviewed involved parties and witnesses as part of their investigation, which began in February.
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University's Response and Kingston's Status
BYU released a statement on Wednesday night confirming that Parker Kingston is no longer a student at the university. The university also indicated he is no longer participating in team activities. Reports suggest he is not currently enrolled at BYU at all. This swift action by the university follows the formal charges and arrest of their prominent player.
Legal Proceedings and Player Statistics
Parker Kingston is scheduled to appear in Utah’s Fifth Judicial District Court on Friday at 1:30 p.m. MT. He is being held without bail in Washington County jail. Prior to these events, Kingston was a significant asset to the BYU football program. Last season, he recorded a team-leading 67 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdown catches. His arrest and subsequent departure from the university mark a dramatic turn for the athlete.
Focus on the Criminal Case
While the context involves a university athlete, the core of the matter is a criminal case. The accusation of felony rape is a serious charge with significant legal ramifications. The investigation, as reported by prosecutors, has involved standard investigative procedures, including the collection of evidence and witness interviews. The proceedings will now move through the judicial system to determine the facts and any legal outcomes.
Implications for BYU Football
The removal of a star player like Parker Kingston undoubtedly impacts the BYU football program. Beyond the loss of his athletic contributions, the situation presents the university with challenges regarding its image and its handling of such serious allegations. The case underscores the critical intersection of athletics, student conduct, and the justice system within college sports.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Parker Kingston is no longer a student at BYU following his arrest and charge with first-degree felony rape. The legal process against him is ongoing, with his initial court appearance having taken place on Friday. The university has confirmed his departure from their academic and athletic programs. The investigation into the alleged assault, which reportedly occurred in February, has involved the collection of evidence and witness statements. The case will now proceed through the court system, with the legal proceedings taking precedence.
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Sources Used:
AP News: https://apnews.com/article/byu-football-parker-kingston-rape-charge-b0259301edc63da16bbaa81fd7b24790 - Provides an overview of BYU's confirmation of Kingston's departure following the felony rape charge, including details from the accuser's statement.
The Independent: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/utah-police-arizona-washington-county-b2918751.html - Details the first-degree felony rape charge filed against Kingston by Utah prosecutors and his holding status.
The New York Times (The Athletic): https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7040441/2026/02/11/parker-kingston-byu-felony-rape-charge/ - Reports on the specific charge, Kingston's arrest, bail status, and scheduled court appearance.
International Business Times: https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/byu-receiver-parker-kingston-felony-rape-charge-1778486 - Covers Kingston's arrest on a felony rape accusation and touches on the questions this raises for the BYU football program.
