Son of Norway’s Crown Princess Charged With 32 Offences Including Rape

In Oslo, Norwegian prosecutors confirmed that Marius Borg Høiby (28), the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been indicted on 32 separate offences. The charges include four counts of rape, multiple instances of domestic violence, violations of restraining orders, vandalism, and traffic offences.

Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø announced the indictment at a press conference, describing the allegations as “very serious acts that can leave lasting scars and destroy lives.” He emphasized that Høiby’s family ties would not affect the legal process, stating: “Royal status must not influence how this case is handled.”

The charges follow a year-long police investigation that began after Høiby’s arrest on August 4, 2024. He remains free while awaiting trial, which prosecutors expect to begin early next year. If convicted, he could face up to ten years in prison under Norwegian law.

Details of the Allegations

According to prosecutors, the most serious charges stem from alleged assaults against women in relationships with Høiby. Authorities accuse him of four separate rapes, domestic abuse, and repeated violations of restraining orders imposed by the courts. The indictment also includes allegations of making death threats and recording explicit images of women without their knowledge or consent.

Investigators have linked the incidents to a pattern of escalating behaviour spanning several years. Norwegian media report that some offences took place as recently as 2024, after the investigation had already begun. The prosecution argues this shows a disregard for legal restrictions already in place.

Additional charges involve vandalism and reckless driving, suggesting a pattern of violent and destructive conduct. Collectively, the indictment portrays a case that prosecutors have described as one of the most extensive criminal proceedings involving a public figure in recent years.

Royal Family Response and Public Reaction

The Norwegian Royal Court issued a brief statement following the announcement. It described the case as “deeply troubling” and stressed that the matter is “now in the hands of the judicial system.” Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit have not commented directly on the charges against Høiby, but past interviews indicate concern for his well-being. In 2024, the Crown Prince told state broadcaster NRK that the family hoped he would receive help for personal struggles.

Høiby, 28, is Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship before her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon. He holds no official royal role and does not receive public funding, but his connection to the monarchy has brought intense media scrutiny.

Public reaction in Norway has been divided. Many commentators expressed shock at the scale of the indictment, while others emphasized the importance of treating him like any other citizen before the law. Prosecutors reiterated that principle during the press conference, underlining that equal treatment remains a cornerstone of Norway’s justice system.

International coverage has framed the indictment as a scandal for the Norwegian royal family, highlighting the contrast between its generally low-key reputation and the seriousness of the allegations. Domestic outlets, however, have focused on the legal process itself, avoiding speculation about the monarchy’s future.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

Høiby’s case will proceed to trial in early 2026, according to the Oslo District Court. Until then, he remains under restrictions but not in custody. Prosecutors argue that the scope of the indictment underscores the importance of a thorough trial, while defence lawyers have indicated they will contest several of the charges.

The court has not yet set exact trial dates. Norwegian legal experts predict the proceedings will last several months because prosecutors plan to present numerous offences and call many witnesses. Prosecutors will rely heavily on victim testimony, forensic evidence, and electronic records.

The outcome of the case could have far-reaching consequences. A conviction would mark one of the most severe legal judgments against a member connected to a European royal family in recent decades. An acquittal, or partial conviction, would likely still leave a lasting impact on public perceptions of both Høiby and the wider royal household.

For now, prosecutors maintain their message: the seriousness of the charges demands accountability. As Henriksbø stated, “These acts, if proven, represent crimes that destroy lives. Our responsibility is to ensure they are examined fully and fairly in court.”