Prosecutors Move to Disqualify Judge in Parker Kingston Rape Case

Overview

• Washington County Attorney Jerry Jaeger filed a motion on Monday asking that 5th District Judge Jay Winward be removed from the case, saying the alleged victim no longer believes she can get a fair hearing.
• The filing cites a May 18 hearing where Winward said he would consider Kingston’s athletic career when setting the schedule and refused a prosecution request for a longer continuance backed by medical advice that the victim needed about 12 more weeks to be ready to testify.
• Prosecutors also say Winward failed to enforce his order protecting the victim’s identity when defense lawyers disclosed her name at a preliminary hearing and declined to hold them in contempt.
• The motion points to a prior case Judge Winward handled, in which he questioned DNA evidence and dismissed charges, as evidence of a pattern that could create the appearance of skepticism toward sexual‑assault claims involving athletes.
• Kingston faces one count of felony rape and the trial remains set for July 6 while the disqualification request is pending, a decision that could delay proceedings, move the case to another judge, or prompt appeals that affect timing and public confidence.