The eldest son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit is set to face trial this week on a series of serious criminal charges, including rape, in a high-profile case that has deeply embarrassed the nation's royal family. Marius Borg Høiby, 29, will appear before the Oslo district court from Tuesday, with proceedings expected to continue until mid-March, following his indictment in August after a lengthy investigation.
Details of the Indictment and Charges
Høiby is confronting 38 separate counts in what prosecutors describe as a complex and severe case. The charges encompass multiple allegations of rape occurring between 2018 and November 2024, alongside accusations of abuse in a close relationship against one former partner and acts of violence against another. Additionally, he faces charges for transporting 3.5 kilograms of marijuana, making death threats, and various traffic violations. If convicted, Høiby could potentially receive a prison sentence of up to 10 years, highlighting the gravity of the accusations.
Royal Connections and Legal Proceedings
As the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship and stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, Høiby holds no royal title or official duties, yet his case has drawn intense public scrutiny. He has been under investigation since repeated arrests in 2024 for alleged wrongdoing and has remained free pending trial. The indictment specifically centres on four alleged rapes, violence and threats against a former partner between summer 2022 and autumn 2023, and two alleged acts of violence against a subsequent partner, including violations of a restraining order.
In response to the charges, defence attorney Petar Sekulic stated at the time of indictment that Høiby denies all allegations of sexual abuse and the majority of the violence charges. Sekulic emphasised that Høiby plans to present a detailed account of his version of events during the trial, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle.
Royal Family's Response and Public Impact
In a rare public statement, Crown Prince Haakon confirmed that neither he nor Crown Princess Mette-Marit intend to attend the courtroom proceedings, and the royal house will refrain from commenting throughout the trial. Haakon stressed that Høiby is not a member of the royal house and, as a Norwegian citizen, possesses the same rights and responsibilities as any other individual. He expressed confidence that all parties involved would ensure the trial is conducted in an orderly, proper, and fair manner.
Despite the royal family's general popularity in Norway, this case has undoubtedly cast a shadow over their public image. Tove Taalesen, a royal expert at Nettavisen newspaper, noted that the past year and a half have been shocking for the Norwegian people, who hold deep affection for their monarchy, often viewing King Harald as a grandfatherly figure. Recent polls indicate continued support for King Harald and Queen Sonja, with many expressing compassion for the royal family's ordeal, though opinions vary among individual members.
Broader Context of Royal Scandals
The Høiby trial is not the only source of negative publicity for the Norwegian royals in recent times. Princess Märtha Louise, sister of Crown Prince Haakon, has faced repeated criticism over her business ventures. In 2024, around the same period as Høiby's case gained attention, she married American self-professed shaman Durek Verrett, further fuelling media scrutiny and public debate about the monarchy's modern challenges.
As the trial unfolds, it promises to be a significant test for Norway's judicial system and the royal family's reputation, with potential long-term implications for public perception and trust in the institution.
