Marius Borg Høiby, son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has gone on trial in Oslo facing multiple serious charges, including rape, bodily harm, and violating restraining orders. The trial, which comes a year and a half after his initial arrest, has attracted intense media attention and put the royal family under unprecedented scrutiny.
Høiby pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape, while partially admitting to lesser charges such as causing bodily harm, transporting marijuana, and breaking a restraining order. Prosecutors allege that some of the alleged assaults occurred when the victims were unconscious or incapacitated, including one incident in December 2018 in the basement of his parents’ home.
The case coincides with renewed controversy surrounding Crown Princess Mette-Marit after her name appeared in over 900 emails with the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The princess has admitted to showing “poor judgement,” prompting criticism from public figures and organisations, including the withdrawal of her patronage from the Sex and Society foundation’s annual Shameless Prize.
Høiby, who is not a public royal figure but closely linked to the family, appeared in court wearing casual clothing, with heavy restrictions on photography and media coverage imposed by the judge. The trial is expected to last seven weeks and will be decided by a panel of three judges. If convicted of the most serious charges, Høiby could face at least ten years in prison.
Royal experts note the trial and ongoing Epstein-related revelations could have lasting effects on the crown princess’s reputation. Despite the controversy, polls suggest the Norwegian royal family remains broadly popular, though critics question its transparency and accountability in light of recent events.
Source: BBC News
