BYU Wide Receiver Parker Kingston No Longer a Student After Rape Charges

Brigham Young University announced on Friday that standout wide receiver Parker Kingston is no longer enrolled at the school, following his arrest earlier this week on first-degree rape charges.

Kingston, who is 21 years old, made his initial court appearance in St. George on Friday. Prosecutors stated that a 20-year-old woman reported that Kingston assaulted her at his home in February of last year.

Washington County Attorney Jerry Yeager mentioned that Kingston’s arrest came after a year-long investigation, during which detectives gathered digital and forensic evidence and interviewed various witnesses.

During the hearing, Judge John Walton remarked, “Clear and convincing evidence shows that Mr. Kingston is a danger to the community.”

Despite this, Judge Walton permitted Kingston to be released on a $100,000 bond, requiring him to pay $10,000 in cash to the court.

Defense attorney Carla Tangaro stated that Kingston must avoid any contact with his accusers or potential witnesses, refrain from using social media, and wear a GPS ankle monitor. He is only allowed to return to southwestern Utah for court appearances.

Kingston appeared in court via video link from prison.

If found guilty, he could face a prison sentence ranging from five years to life.

A spokesperson for BYU, John McBride, indicated that both school authorities and coaches were only informed about Kingston’s investigation and the charges after his arrest. He did not clarify whether Kingston was expelled or if he left voluntarily.

Tangaro mentioned to The Associated Press that she had not yet spoken to BYU and therefore couldn’t provide any comments on the situation due to a court order.

According to an affidavit released Thursday, Kingston asserted to St. George police that “all sexual activity” with the woman who accused him was “consensual.” In contrast, the woman reported to investigators that she had expressed her disinterest in engaging in sexual activity before he arrived at her home and repeatedly told him to stop once it began.

BYU, the principal university affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, enforces a strict honor code that prohibits sexual relations outside of marriage. Breaching this code could result in suspension, and athletes may face extended time on the bench.

Other prominent athletes, such as Tulane quarterback Jake Retzlaff, have faced significant suspensions for violating this honor code, leading them to leave BYU.

Kingston was recognized as BYU’s top receiver last season. His next court appearance is set for February 25th.