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crime19h ago
Prosecutors say former BYU football star getting preferential treatment in rape case
Deseret.com and 1 more
- Prosecutors are seeking to disqualify 5th District Judge Jay Winward, arguing impartiality concerns in Parker Kingston's rape case tied to perceived preferential treatment due to Kingston's football career.
- The motion asserts Kingston's athletic status influenced trial scheduling, suggesting the court relied on his sports career despite serious medical and mental health concerns affecting the alleged victim.
- Prosecutors describe a pattern of conduct and statements favoring Kingston due to his status as a prominent athlete, raising concerns about equal treatment in court.
- The alleged victim says she has lost confidence in receiving a fair proceeding before Judge Winward and seeks an impartial court and jury.
- Parker Kingston, 22, faces one count of felony rape for an alleged February 2025 incident in a St. George apartment.
- A May 18, 2026 hearing is cited where Winward stated he considered Kingston's athletic career in scheduling, implying a potential de-emphasis of the victim's medical needs.
- BYU disclosed Kingston is no longer a student and has been removed from the football team, affecting his status as a current student-athlete.
- Despite the motion, the trial date remains set for July 6, 2026, with a pretrial conference on June 17, indicating scheduling progress before a disqualification ruling.
- Prosecutors argue the victim's medical and mental health needs were not adequately accommodated, highlighting tensions over courtroom directives and accommodations.
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