BYU Star Wide Receiver Arrested on Felony Rape Charges

Parker Kingston faces potential 5-year to life sentence if found guilty

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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BYU senior wide receiver Parker Kingston has been arrested on first-degree felony rape charges stemming from an alleged incident in February 2025. The arrest comes after a year-long investigation by the Washington County Sheriff's Office, which was notified by a woman claiming Kingston had raped her. Kingston is being held without bail as the case proceeds.

Why it matters

This is the second time in less than a year that a BYU football player has been accused of sexual misconduct, raising concerns about the program's culture and the university's handling of such allegations. The charges against Kingston are serious, and if found guilty, he could face a lengthy prison sentence, effectively ending his college football career.

The details

Detectives with the St. George Police Department gathered digital and forensic evidence, conducted interviews with the parties involved and other witnesses, and turned the information over to the Washington County Attorney's Office for review. The BYU athletic department claims it was unaware of the incident until Kingston's arrest, and has pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation.

  • On February 23, 2025, the alleged incident occurred in Washington County, Utah.
  • On February 12, 2026, Parker Kingston was arrested on first-degree felony rape charges.

The players

Parker Kingston

A senior wide receiver for the BYU Cougars football team who has been arrested on first-degree felony rape charges.

Washington County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that conducted a year-long investigation into the alleged rape incident involving Parker Kingston.

BYU Athletic Department

The department that claims it was unaware of the incident until Kingston's arrest and has pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Parker Kingston out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of sexual misconduct allegations in college sports and the need for universities to have robust policies and procedures in place to address such incidents. The charges against Kingston are a serious matter that go beyond the scope of athletics and raise questions about the culture and accountability within the BYU football program.