Breaking: BYU Wide Receiver Parker Kingston Arrested on Felony Rape Charge in Washington County

ST. GEORGE, Utah — Parker Kingston, a standout wide receiver for the BYU Cougars, was booked into the Washington County Jail on Wednesday after prosecutors filed a first-degree felony rape charge stemming from an incident that allegedly occurred on Feb. 23, 2025. According to court documents, a 20-year-old woman told St. George police that Kingston sexually assaulted her at an off-campus apartment. Detectives say they compiled digital communications, forensic evidence and witness interviews before forwarding the case to the Washington County Attorney’s Office, which filed charges on Tuesday. Kingston, 21, is being held without bail and is scheduled to make his initial court appearance Friday. Under Utah law, a first-degree felony rape conviction carries a potential penalty of five years to life in prison. BYU issued a brief statement Wednesday afternoon: “BYU became aware today of the arrest of Parker Kingston. The university takes any allegation very seriously and will cooperate with law enforcement. Due to federal and university privacy laws, we cannot provide additional comment.” Kingston emerged as one of the Cougars’ most electrifying players in 2025, collecting 812 receiving yards, six touchdowns and two punt-return scores while earning All-Big 12 honorable mention. The Saratoga Springs native signed with BYU in 2023 after starring at Corner Canyon High School as a dual-threat quarterback and track standout. The arrest comes as the football program begins winter conditioning ahead of spring practices. Head coach Kalani Sitake has not yet addressed Kingston’s status with the team, but BYU’s student-athlete conduct policy allows the university to impose interim measures, including suspension, while a criminal case proceeds. Kingston’s attorney had not responded to requests for comment at press time. Court records do not list a plea. Next steps • Feb. 14: Initial appearance in 5th District Court, St. George • Discovery phase: Prosecution shares evidence with defense • Preliminary hearing: Judge decides if probable cause exists to bind the case over for trial • Possible NCAA/BYU discipline pending outcome of internal review This is a developing story.