Marius Borg Høiby, Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son, faces 32 charges including rape and abuse. He denies allegations, while Norway’s royal family says the case rests with the courts.
Marius Borg Høiby, son of the Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway and stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, has been charged with 32 felonies. The 28-year-old could face up to 10 years in jail if convicted. The charges count for four counts of rape. His trial is expected next year.
Public prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo explained that the maximum penalty for the listed offences is up to 10 years. He added, “These are very serious acts that can leave lasting scars and destroy lives. The fact that Marius Borg Hoiby is a member of the royal family should, of course, not mean that he should be treated more lightly or more severely than if similar acts had been committed by others.”
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Høiby denied most of the charges. especially the rape counts. His lawyer, Peter Sekulic told The Guardian, Our client denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence. He will present a detailed account of his version of events before the court.”
Sekulic further stated that Høiby may plead guilty to some offences but not the claims of rape and domestic violence.
The royal family has remained neutral on the case, suggesting that the court will reach a verdict after hearing the case.
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Høiby is charged with raping four women, domestic abuse of a former partner, and illegal filming of women's private parts without their consent. other charges include harassment and traffic violations.
Høiby is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon. He has two step-siblings, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 21 and Prince Sverre Magnus, 19. Unlike them, he does not hold a royal title.
