BYU recently expelled Parker Kingston after he was arrested on a felony rape charge. Kingston, a standout player who led the Cougars with 924 receiving yards and 66 receptions in the 2025 season, is no longer part of the team.
The university only learned about the allegations after Kingston’s arrest on February 11. The university’s athletic administration issued a statement confirming his expulsion.
Kingston, now 21, made his initial court appearance on February 13 via video link from Purgatory Correctional Facility in Hurricane, Utah. The judge set his release terms, which included a $100,000 bond, with $10,000 required in cash upfront.
The allegations stem from an incident reported on February 23, 2025, in St. George, Utah. The victim, who was 20 at the time, detailed her claims to hospital staff shortly after the event. Kingston maintained that any sexual activity was consensual.
As part of his bail conditions, Kingston will wear a GPS ankle monitor for at least 60 days and must refrain from contacting the victim, her family, or any witnesses. He is also required to delete all social media apps and is barred from entering Washington County except for court-related appearances.
The St. George Police Department has been investigating the matter for over a year, gathering digital and forensic evidence, as well as interviewing those involved.
Kingston’s next virtual hearing is set for February 25, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for April 13 in St. George.
Cases like these raise crucial questions about how universities handle allegations of misconduct and protect their students. In recent years, many institutions have been criticized for their responses to sexual assault claims. A 2022 report from the National Institute of Justice revealed that nearly 1 in 5 women experience sexual assault during their college years, highlighting the importance of thorough investigations and proper support for victims.
On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some users demand accountability, while others express concern for Kingston’s future. Discussions around campus safety and how schools manage such cases are increasingly prevalent online, making this a deeply relevant topic for students and administration alike. For further insights on how universities can improve their handling of these sensitive cases, see reports from organizations like the National Sexual Violence Resource Center.
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BYU Cougars, College Football, College Sports
