Norwegian Crown Princess’s Son Indicted on 32 Charges, Including Rape

The eldest son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Marius Borg Høiby, has been indicted on 32 charges, including at least four counts of rape. This announcement came from Norwegian prosecutors on Monday, following an extensive investigation that could potentially see him sentenced to up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

According to Oslo state attorney Sturla Henriksbø, Høiby faces serious allegations that encompass a range of offenses. These include not only multiple counts of rape but also charges related to violence against a former partner, making death threats, and various traffic violations. The indictment marks a significant escalation in Høiby’s legal troubles, which have attracted considerable media attention in Norway.

Høiby, aged 28, is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon and does not hold any royal title or official duties. His recent history includes a series of arrests and allegations that have placed him under public scrutiny. Currently, he remains free pending trial, as state prosecutors do not see a necessity for immediate incarceration.

The trial is anticipated to commence around mid-January 2024 and is expected to last approximately six weeks. Høiby’s defense attorney, Petar Sekuli, issued a statement declaring that his client “denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence.” Sekuli emphasized that Høiby intends to provide a detailed account of his version of events in court.

The Norwegian royal palace has refrained from commenting on the matter, stating that it is a legal issue for the courts to decide. As the case unfolds, it highlights the intersection of royal family dynamics and serious legal accusations, drawing attention both nationally and internationally. The outcome of this trial will likely have significant implications for Høiby and the royal family as they navigate this challenging situation.