Story perspectives

Judge Dismisses Rape Charges Against Ex-BYU Receiver, Case Remains Open

6/19/2026

Summary

Kingston Charges Dismissed

U.S. District Judge Jay Winward dismissed felony rape charges against former BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston without prejudice.
The judge denied the prosecution’s request for a continuance that would have pushed the trial into the fall.
Because the dismissal is without prejudice, prosecutors may refile the case later under the statute of limitations.
Despite the dropped charges, Kingston likely violated BYU’s Honor Code and could face a prolonged football-team suspension.

Summary

Washington County Refiles

The Washington County Attorney’s Office announced it will refile the rape charge after the prior dismissal.
Deputy Washington County Attorney Jerry Jaeger asked for a continuance, citing the alleged victim’s documented medical condition.
Victim’s family said the court prioritized the athlete over justice, expressing disappointment.
BYU athletics department said the workout video was not a team activity, noting officials were unaware of it.

History

Historical Context

Signed by President Bill Clinton in 1994, the Violence Against Women Act allocated $1.6 billion to federal, state and tribal programs and created the DOJ’s Office on Violence Against Women, boosting federal prosecutions of sexual assault by about 30 percent by 1996. That legacy frames today’s Utah case, where U.S. District Judge Jay Winward dismissed BYU receiver Parker Kingston’s rape charge amid ongoing calls for accountability.

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Kingston Charges Dismissed

U.S. District Judge Jay Winward dismissed felony rape charges against former BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston without prejudice.
The judge denied the prosecution’s request for a continuance that would have pushed the trial into the fall.
Because the dismissal is without prejudice, prosecutors may refile the case later under the statute of limitations.
Despite the dropped charges, Kingston likely violated BYU’s Honor Code and could face a prolonged football-team suspension.

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