BYU’s Parker Kingston Arrested on First-Degree Felony Rape Charge Following Year-Long Investigation
BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston has been arrested and booked without bail on a first-degree felony rape charge tied to an incident that allegedly occurred in February 2025. The 21-year-old standout, who led the Cougars in receiving last season, is scheduled to make his initial court appearance on Friday, February 13.
According to statements from the Washington County Attorney’s Office, the charge follows a year-long investigation that began when the alleged victim reported the incident to authorities at St. George Regional Hospital.
From there, the case was handed over to the St. George Police Department, which conducted a detailed investigation that included collecting digital and forensic evidence and interviewing multiple parties, including witnesses.
“The Washington County Attorney’s Office takes allegations of sexual assault seriously,” the office said in a public statement. “We thank the medical professionals and law enforcement officers who assisted with this investigation for their partnership and professionalism.”
Kingston’s arrest marks a significant development for a player who had emerged as a key figure in BYU’s offense. In the 2025 season, he led the Cougars with 66 receptions, 924 receiving yards, and five touchdowns - numbers that not only made him a go-to target in the passing game but also positioned him as one of the more dynamic offensive threats in the Big 12.
In response to the arrest, BYU issued a brief statement acknowledging the situation but declining to comment further, citing privacy laws.
“BYU became aware today of the arrest of Parker Kingston,” the university said. “The university takes any allegation very seriously and will cooperate with law enforcement. Due to federal and university privacy laws and practices for students, the university will not be able to provide additional comment.”
This is the second time in less than a year that a BYU football player has faced rape allegations. In May 2025, former quarterback Jake Retzlaff was accused in a civil lawsuit, though that case was later dismissed with prejudice over the summer. Retzlaff has since transferred to Tulane.
As the legal process unfolds, questions remain about Kingston’s future - both on and off the field. For now, BYU and its football program find themselves navigating yet another difficult situation, one that will demand both accountability and clarity in the weeks to come.