College football star Parker Kingston’s first-degree rape case has been dismissed after a Utah judge declined a joint request from prosecutors and defense attorneys to delay the trial again.
During a hearing on Thursday, June 18, Utah Fifth District Court Judge Jay Winward dismissed the case without prejudice, meaning prosecutors retain the option to bring the charge again in the future. The Salt Lake Tribune noted that both sides had sought an additional delay of up to two months, but Winward noted that previous continuances had already been granted and questioned whether a new trial date would ultimately resolve the issues surrounding the case.
Kingston, 21, was charged in February 2026 with first-degree felony rape after authorities alleged he assaulted a 20-year-old woman in her St. George home in February 2025. Prosecutors said the investigation involved digital evidence, forensic analysis, and witness interviews. Following his arrest, BYU announced that Kingston was no longer enrolled at the university and had been removed from the football program.
The defense argued that continued delays had taken a significant toll on Kingston’s life beyond football. “It’s everything for [Kingston]. It’s not just football,” defense attorney Cara Tangaro told the court. “During an interview with law enforcement, he let them know that he was getting engaged in three days, and they talked all about his engagement. Well, guess what he’s missed? His wedding.”
Prosecutors, meanwhile, said the victim was not ready to proceed. “We want this trial to go. We’re doing everything in our power to make that happen, but this is not the right time,” prosecutor Stephanie Harmon said.
Judge Winward ultimately sided with neither party’s request for another postponement, stating, “The state is not ready. The victim is unprepared to testify, and that’s okay. The case is dismissed without prejudice.”
Before his legal troubles, Parker Kingston had emerged as one of BYU’s most versatile offensive weapons. The Roy High School graduate entered 2026 coming off a breakout season and had announced plans to return for his senior year. Over three seasons with the Cougars, he totaled 98 receptions for 1,327 yards and seven receiving touchdowns while also contributing as a return specialist and passer.
National studies show that more than one in four undergraduate women experience rape or sexual assault during college, while experts say more than 90% of assaults are never reported. Researchers have also found that most survivors know the perpetrator and often choose not to come forward because of fears surrounding privacy, retaliation, or disbelief.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, confidential support is available 24 hours a day through the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN). Survivors can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) for free assistance and resources.
