Marius Borg Høiby faces 38 charges as trial commences in Oslo, intensifying scrutiny on Norway’s royal family.
A tense courtroom scene unfolds in Oslo as Marius Borg Høiby, son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, faces trial. Arrested a year and a half ago for a violent incident at a woman’s flat, Høiby now confronts 38 charges, including four counts of rape one of the country’s largest sexual assault cases in years.
The seven-week trial begins at Oslo District Court under strict restrictions: no photos of Høiby and no identifying details of the four alleged victims. He remains in custody after a recent arrest on suspicion of assault, threats with a knife, and violating a restraining order. His defense plans to appeal the remand decision.
The trial coincides with growing controversy over his mother, Crown Princess Mette-Marit. Emails revealed she had extensive contact with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She admitted “poor judgement,” prompting organisations to cut ties and igniting public criticism.
The royal family will not attend proceedings, with King Harald V and Queen Sonja traveling to the Winter Olympics. While Høiby is not formally part of the royal family, his close association and the high-profile nature of the case have captured national and international attention.
Charges against Høiby span serious sexual offences, assault, coercion, violating restraining orders, and drug possession. He denies most allegations of sexual abuse and violence, though admits to minor offences, including physical abuse and property destruction. If convicted, he could face at least ten years in prison.
Meanwhile, the Crown Princess faces political and public pressure. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre urges transparency regarding her emails with Epstein. Commentators say these revelations may shadow her for life, and public opinion shows disappointment and shock.
Despite controversy, Norway’s monarchy remains broadly popular. However, political figures argue that the scandal tests the institution’s credibility and calls for honesty from the royal household.