Crown Princess Mette-Marit's Son Charged with 32 Offenses, Including Four Rapes

Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been formally charged with 32 criminal offenses, including four counts of rape and several acts of violence and assault, a prosecutor announced on Monday. The charges follow a year-long police investigation, and Høiby is expected to stand trial early next year, facing a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years if convicted of the most serious charges.

Oslo state attorney Sturla Henriksbø detailed the extensive indictment, which includes charges of rape against four different women, domestic abuse of a former partner, and illegally filming numerous women, including their genitals, without their knowledge or consent. Additionally, Høiby faces charges related to harassment of police, disturbing the peace, vandalism, violating restraining orders, and traffic violations. The alleged rapes reportedly occurred between 2018 and November 2024, with some incidents said to have taken place after the police investigation had already begun.

Høiby's lawyer, Petar Sekulic, stated that his client "denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence." Sekulic added that Høiby will present a detailed account of his version of events before the court, though he reportedly plans to plead guilty to some lesser charges.

Marius Borg Høiby is the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a relationship prior to her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to the Norwegian throne. He does not hold a royal title and is not in the line of succession. The Royal Palace issued a brief statement, emphasizing that the matter is for the courts to consider: > "It is for the courts to consider this matter and reach a decision. We have no further comment."

The investigation into Høiby began publicly in August 2024, following his arrest on suspicion of assaulting a girlfriend. At the time, he admitted to causing bodily harm while under the influence of cocaine and alcohol, expressing regret and indicating a struggle with substance abuse. Prosecutor Henriksbø stressed the gravity of the charges, stating: > "These are very serious acts that can leave lasting scars and destroy lives." He further emphasized that Høiby's connection to the royal family would not lead to preferential or harsher treatment, ensuring the legal process remains impartial. The trial is anticipated to commence in mid-January and could last approximately six weeks.