Parker Kingston faces a first-degree felony rape charge in Utah after prosecutors filed the case this week, according to the Washington County Attorney’s Office.
Authorities are holding the 21-year-old without bail in St. George, and a judge has scheduled his initial court appearance for Friday in Utah’s Fifth Judicial District Court.
Prosecutors say a woman who was 20 at the time reported the alleged assault to officers at a St. George hospital on February 23, 2025, triggering an investigation that has run for nearly a year.
Investigation moved to county prosecutors
Detectives with the St. George Police Department gathered digital and forensic evidence and interviewed both parties as well as other witnesses, the attorney’s office said in a news release.
Police later submitted their findings to the Washington County Attorney’s Office for review, which led to the formal charge announced Wednesday.
Court records do not yet list an attorney for Kingston, and he has not publicly commented on the charge.
BYU responds to arrest
Brigham Young University confirmed it became aware of Kingston’s arrest and said the school will cooperate fully with law enforcement.
“The university takes any allegation very seriously,” BYU said in a statement, adding that federal and university privacy laws prevent further comment.
The school did not address Kingston’s playing status.
On-field impact last season
Kingston led BYU in receiving during the 2025 season, finishing with 67 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns.
He also rushed for 199 yards on 25 carries and returned 17 punts for 230 yards and a score, giving the Cougars production in multiple phases.
His arrest comes during the offseason as BYU prepares for spring workouts.
The charge marks the second high-profile sexual assault allegation involving a BYU football player in the past year.
In May, former quarterback Jake Retzlaff faced a civil lawsuit alleging rape. Both parties later agreed to dismiss that case with prejudice, and prosecutors did not file criminal charges.
Kingston’s case now moves to the courts, where a judge will address bail and next steps at Friday’s hearing.
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