Royal Scandal Rocks Norway
Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit, faces prosecution for 32 criminal charges including four counts of rape. The Norwegian Public Prosecution Service announced the indictment, which carries a maximum prison sentence of ten years.
Serious Allegations
Høiby is accused of raping four different women between 2018 and 2024, allegedly filming the assaults without consent. Prosecutors state they possess substantial evidence, including videos showing non-consensual filming of intimate body parts. "Rape and relationship violence are extremely serious crimes that can leave lasting scars," stated the prosecutor.
Pattern of Abuse
Beyond the rape charges, Høiby faces allegations of physically assaulting two former partners. Court documents describe incidents of kicking, punching, choking, and psychological abuse. During a 2024 interview with NRK, Høiby admitted to violent behavior while under the influence of alcohol and cocaine, acknowledging long-term struggles with drug addiction.
Royal Connections
As the biological son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship with convicted felon Morten Borg, Høiby holds no royal title despite being raised alongside royal heirs. Prosecutors emphasized he "will not be treated differently because of his royal family connections." This case follows his June 2024 arrest for similar offenses.
Upcoming Trial
The trial is scheduled to begin in January and expected to last six weeks. Høiby denies the rape accusations but admits to other violent behavior. This scandal has intensified republican sentiment in Norway, with royal commentators noting significant damage to the monarchy's reputation.