Norwegian Crown Princess's Son Faces Multiple Criminal Charges

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 multiple instances of domestic violence and assault. The charges follow a year-long police investigation initiated after his arrest in August 2024 on suspicion of assaulting a girlfriend.

The indictment includes one count of rape involving sexual intercourse and three counts without intercourse, some of which were allegedly recorded on his phone. Additional charges encompass domestic abuse against a former partner, several counts of violence, disturbing the peace, vandalism, and violation of restraining orders.

Public prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo stated that the maximum penalty for the listed offenses is up to 10 years in prison. He emphasized the severity of the acts, noting their potential to leave lasting scars and destroy lives. Henriksbo also asserted that Høiby's royal connections would not influence the judicial process, ensuring he is neither treated more lightly nor more severely than others facing similar charges.

Høiby denies the most serious allegations but plans to plead guilty to some lesser charges, according to his lawyer, Petar Sekulic. Sekulic conveyed that his client does not agree with the claims regarding rape and domestic violence.

The alleged rapes occurred in 2018, 2023, and 2024, with the most recent incident taking place after the police investigation had commenced. Høiby has previously admitted to assault and vandalism related to the August 2024 incident for which he was arrested.

In a public statement following his arrest, Høiby acknowledged acting under the influence of alcohol and cocaine after an argument, citing struggles with mental health issues and long-term substance abuse.

The royal palace issued a statement emphasizing that it is up to the courts to hear the case and reach a decision.

Høiby, born from Crown Princess Mette-Marit's previous relationship before her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon, was raised alongside his step-siblings, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus. Unlike them, he holds no official public role.