Norwegian prosecutors have formally indicted Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, on 32 charges including rape, abuse, violence, and threats. The announcement was made on Monday, with prosecutors confirming that the case will head to trial early next year.
Høiby, 28, is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon and has no royal title or official duties within the Norwegian monarchy. Despite his non-royal status, his indictment has placed the royal family under intense public scrutiny. State media reports that if convicted on the most serious counts, Høiby could face up to 10 years in prison.
According to Oslo state attorney Sturla Henriksbø, the charges were filed after a lengthy investigation involving testimony from alleged victims, witnesses, and an examination of past incidents.
Among the charges are at least four counts of rape, multiple counts of abuse, violence against a former partner, and making death threats. Høiby has also been charged with various traffic violations.
Prosecutors confirmed that Høiby remains free pending trial, with Henriksbø stating there was “no current basis” to hold him in custody before proceedings begin. “The case is significant and serious,” Henriksbø noted, adding that the trial could begin around mid-January and last approximately six weeks.
Høiby’s defense attorney, Petar Sekuli, issued a statement denying the majority of the allegations. “My client denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence,” Sekuli said. He emphasized that Høiby intends to “present a detailed account of his version of events before the court.”
The indictment follows a year of growing public attention surrounding Høiby, who has faced multiple brushes with the law in recent years. Several arrests and allegations of misconduct have drawn increasing scrutiny, but this marks the first formal indictment on such grave charges.
Norway’s royal palace issued a brief statement, clarifying that it would not intervene or comment on the matter. “It is up to the courts to litigate this case,” the palace said, underscoring its position to remain neutral while legal proceedings are ongoing.
Public reaction in Norway has been one of shock, particularly as the indictment involves a member of the extended royal family, albeit without an official role. Analysts suggest the trial may test the monarchy’s ability to distance itself from controversies involving relatives by marriage.
If convicted, Høiby could face a sentence that significantly reshapes his public life. However, as the trial approaches, his legal team has vowed to challenge the accusations vigorously.
The case is expected to attract widespread media coverage in Norway and abroad, given its ties to the royal family and the severity of the charges.
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