Legal Charges Against BYU Wide Receiver
In a significant legal development, Parker Kingston, a prominent wide receiver for Brigham Young University (BYU), has been charged with first-degree felony rape, according to a statement from Utah prosecutors on Wednesday. The allegations stem from an incident on February 23, 2025, when a woman, who was 20 years old at the time, reported that Kingston assaulted her at a St. George hospital.
Current Status and Investigation
Currently, Kingston, who is 21 years old, remains in custody without bail in St. George, a city that borders Arizona. He is set to make his initial court appearance on Friday. The investigation, which commenced last February, involved the collection of digital forensic evidence, as well as interviews with related parties and witnesses.
Legal Representation and BYU’s Response
As for legal representation, it is unclear whether Kingston has obtained an attorney, as he has not responded to requests for comment, nor has his family returned messages.
In response to the serious nature of the allegations, BYU expressed its commitment to cooperating with law enforcement but noted that, due to federal regulations and university policies regarding student privacy, no further details could be shared at this time.
Kingston’s Athletic Performance
Last season, Kingston had an impressive performance, leading his team with 67 receptions that yielded 928 receiving yards and five touchdowns. His contributions also included rushing for 199 yards across 25 attempts and returning 17 punts, amassing 230 yards and scoring one touchdown.
Broader Implications
This case adds to the ongoing discussions about accountability and safety within college athletic programs, as institutions grapple with serious allegations involving their student-athletes.
