ST. GEORGE, UT – Brigham Young University wide receiver Parker Kingston faces first-degree felony rape charges following a year-long investigation, Washington County prosecutors announced Wednesday.
Kingston, 21, is currently being held without bail in St. George, Utah, near the Arizona border. His initial court appearance is scheduled for Friday, according to county prosecutors.
The criminal investigation began in February 2024 when a 20-year-old woman reported to officers at a St. George hospital that Kingston had assaulted her on February 23, 2024. Prosecutors said the woman provided details of the alleged incident to law enforcement officials.
Over the course of the investigation, police collected digital and forensic evidence while conducting interviews with the involved parties and additional witnesses, according to the prosecutor’s news release.
Kingston has not yet secured legal representation, and attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful. Family members also did not respond to requests for comment regarding the charges.
Brigham Young University issued a statement acknowledging the serious nature of the allegations and pledging full cooperation with law enforcement officials. The university declined to provide additional details, citing federal privacy laws and internal student privacy policies.
The standout receiver led the BYU team last season with 67 catches for 928 receiving yards and five touchdown receptions. Kingston also contributed 199 rushing yards on 25 carries with one rushing touchdown, while returning 17 punts for 230 yards and another score.
First-degree rape charges in Utah carry potential sentences of five years to life in prison if convicted. The case will proceed through Washington County’s court system, with Kingston’s next hearing set for this Friday.
