BYU wide receiver, who recently announced engagement, charged with felony rape
BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston has been charged with felony rape just days after announcing his engagement, following an investigation into an alleged incident last year.
Parker Kingston, a wide receiver for Brigham Young University (BYU), has been charged with first-degree felony rape, a grave allegation that emerged shortly after he announced his engagement. The charge is rooted in a reported incident that took place on February 23, 2025, where a woman claimed Kingston sexually assaulted her. Following the report, law enforcement conducted a thorough investigation involving digital and forensic evidence, alongside interviews with witnesses and the parties involved. This timeline of events has raised significant concern within the community regarding the implications of such serious charges against a college athlete.
Kingston, now 21 years old, is currently being detained without bail in St. George, Utah. Prosecutors have indicated that if convicted, he could face severe penalties, with a possible prison sentence ranging from five years to life. His initial court appearance is set for the near future, indicating that the legal proceedings will begin shortly. The timing of the charge is particularly notable as it follows his public engagement announcement during BYU's recent men's basketball game, which adds a layer of complexity to the situation, drawing both local and national media attention.
This incident not only impacts Kingston's personal life but also raises broader questions about safety and accountability in collegiate sports environments. The University and its athletics program might face scrutiny regarding their support systems for victims of assault, as well as their protocols in handling such serious allegations. The ramifications of the case are likely to extend beyond Kingston, influencing perceptions of campus safety and the responsibilities of educational institutions in addressing sexual violence.