Leading BYU star charged with serious felony after year-long probe

BYU receiver Parker Kingston has been charged with first-degree felony rape following a nearly year-long investigation in Utah.

The Washington County Attorney’s Office formally announced the significant legal development on Wednesday.

Authorities launched an inquiry after a 20-year-old woman reported a sexual assault to officers at St. George Regional Hospital.

According to the official news release, the alleged incident involving the wide receiver took place on 23 February 2025.

Law enforcement officials indicated that detectives gathered both digital and forensic evidence to support the investigation.

Legal proceedings begin

The Cougars’ leading offensive threat is currently being held without bail in Washington County.

He is scheduled to make his first appearance in Utah’s Fifth Judicial District Court on Friday.

The university’s athletic department acknowledged the situation shortly after the arrest was made public.

“BYU became aware today of the arrest of Parker Kingston. The university takes any allegation very seriously, and will cooperate with law enforcement.”

Officials noted that due to federal and university privacy laws regarding students, no further comment would be provided.

A standout season overshadowed

The arrest involves a pivotal figure in the BYU offensive line-up during the 2025 campaign.

Kingston was the programme’s top statistical performer, recording 66 catches for 924 yards and five touchdowns.

This development marks the second high-profile allegation involving a player from the university within the last year.

Former quarterback Jake Retzlaff faced a civil lawsuit accusing him of rape earlier this season.

While that case was dismissed with prejudice in June and no criminal charges were filed, Retzlaff subsequently transferred to Tulane.