BYU Football Player Parker Kingston Charged with Felony Rape: What California Families Need to Know About Legal Rights and Protections

When high-profile criminal allegations emerge, they raise important questions about legal rights, evidence preservation, and family protection—concerns that resonate far beyond the courtroom.

On February 12, 2026, BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston was charged with first-degree felony rape by the Washington County (Utah) Attorney’s Office, following a nearly yearlong investigation. The charge stems from an incident reported on February 23, 2025, when a 20-year-old woman told officers at St. George Regional Hospital that Kingston sexually assaulted her.

What Happened in the Parker Kingston Case?

According to the ESPN report, the investigation included:

Collection of digital and forensic evidence by St. George Police Department detectives

Interviews with the parties involved and other witnesses

Review by the Washington County Attorney’s Office before filing charges

Kingston is currently being held without bail and was scheduled to appear in Utah’s Fifth Judicial District Court on Friday, February 14, 2026. BYU’s athletic department released a statement acknowledging the arrest and stating they will cooperate with law enforcement while declining further comment due to federal and university privacy laws.

This marks the second high-profile rape allegation against a BYU football player within a year. Former quarterback Jake Retzlaff faced similar accusations in a civil lawsuit filed in May 2025, which was dismissed in June 2025 with prejudice, meaning it could not be refiled. No criminal charges were filed against Retzlaff.

Why This Matters for California Families: Understanding Legal Rights and Estate Protection

High-profile criminal cases like this one highlight critical legal considerations that extend far beyond the immediate parties involved. For California residents managing family assets and planning for the future, these situations raise important questions:

How can families protect their assets when facing unexpected legal challenges? Criminal allegations, civil lawsuits, and their associated legal costs can threaten family wealth and future security.

What happens to your estate if you or a family member becomes involved in legal proceedings? Without proper planning, legal judgments can impact inheritance, trust distributions, and asset protection.

How do you ensure your family’s financial security during times of crisis? Comprehensive estate planning provides a safety net when unexpected legal situations arise.

Key Legal Protections California Families Should Consider

1. Asset Protection Trusts

Properly structured trusts can help shield family assets from potential legal judgments and creditors. California residents should consider:

Revocable living trusts for flexibility during your lifetime

Irrevocable trusts for enhanced asset protection

Special needs trusts for vulnerable family members

2. Powers of Attorney and Healthcare Directives

When legal troubles arise, having trusted representatives authorized to manage your affairs becomes crucial:

Financial Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to handle financial matters if you’re unable to

Healthcare Power of Attorney ensures medical decisions align with your wishes

Advance Healthcare Directives provide clear guidance during medical emergencies

3. Comprehensive Estate Plans That Anticipate the Unexpected

The reality is that no family is immune to unexpected legal challenges. Whether it’s criminal allegations, civil disputes, or other legal complications, having a well-structured estate plan provides:

Clear direction for asset distribution that can’t be easily challenged

Protection mechanisms that preserve family wealth across generations

Privacy through trust structures that avoid public probate proceedings

Continuity of financial management even during legal crises

What to Do If Your Family Faces Legal Challenges

For California families concerned about protecting their legacy in the face of potential legal issues, consider these steps:

Schedule a comprehensive estate planning review to identify vulnerabilities

Discuss asset protection strategies with experienced estate planning attorneys

Update beneficiary designations and trust documents to reflect current circumstances

Establish clear communication protocols with family members about estate plans

Document your wishes regarding healthcare, finances, and legacy preservation

How California Probate and Trust Can Help

At California Probate and Trust, PC, we understand that life’s uncertainties can threaten the security you’ve worked hard to build for your family. Our experienced estate planning attorneys help California residents create comprehensive plans that protect assets, preserve legacies, and provide peace of mind—even when unexpected legal challenges arise.

We offer:

Free estate planning consultations to assess your unique situation and identify potential vulnerabilities

Transparent, fixed-fee packages so you know exactly what to expect

Personalized strategies tailored to your family dynamics and asset protection needs

Compassionate guidance through complex legal and emotional decisions

Our Sacramento-based team has helped thousands of California families establish trusts, create comprehensive estate plans, and navigate probate proceedings with confidence and clarity.

Take Action to Protect Your Family’s Future

Don’t wait until a crisis hits to protect what matters most. Schedule your free estate planning consultation with California Probate and Trust today.

Contact us:

Phone: (866)-674-1130

Website: cpt.law

Offices in Fair Oaks, Sacramento, and San Francisco

During your consultation, we’ll discuss your family dynamics, review your current assets, and develop a customized plan that provides the protection and peace of mind you deserve.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified legal professionals. Every family’s situation is unique, and estate planning strategies must be tailored to individual circumstances, state laws, and changing regulations. California Probate and Trust, PC does not represent any parties mentioned in the news story referenced in this article. For specific legal guidance regarding your estate planning needs, please schedule a consultation with our experienced attorneys. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Source: ESPN – “BYU receiver Parker Kingston charged with felony rape”