Norwegian Crown Princess’s Son Denies Rape Charges as High-Profile Trial Opens
OSLO — Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess, pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to four rape charges as his closely watched trial began in Oslo.
The 29-year-old, who is the son of Mette-Marit from a relationship prior to her marriage to Haakon, stood before the court and rejected the main accusations against him.
Journalists inside the courtroom reported that Høiby appeared calm and reserved, showing little emotion as the proceedings got underway.
In total, he is facing 38 charges, including allegations of assault against former partners and serious drug-related offences. If convicted on the most serious counts, he could be sentenced to up to 16 years in prison.
He has, however, admitted guilt to several lesser charges.
Police said Høiby was arrested again on Sunday over allegations of assault, making threats with a knife, and violating a restraining order. He was subsequently remanded in custody for four weeks.
The trial, which is scheduled to run until March 19, opened at 9.30am at the Oslo District Court and drew extensive media coverage from around the world.
During the morning session, prosecutors read out the full list of charges. One of the alleged victims was expected to testify behind closed doors later in the day.
Høiby is due to take the witness stand for the first time tomorrow.
State prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø said ahead of the trial that the defendant would not receive preferential treatment due to his royal background.
“He will be treated like any other individual before the law,” he said.
The investigation began in 2024 following Høiby’s arrest over an alleged assault on his girlfriend. Subsequent inquiries uncovered multiple accusations, including claims that he raped several women while they were unconscious due to alcohol consumption.
The case has become one of the most damaging scandals to affect Norway’s monarchy in recent years, raising questions about its public standing.
A recent survey showed that more than 70 per cent of Norwegians believe the monarchy’s reputation has weakened due to repeated controversies.
Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit are not expected to attend the trial.
The verdict is expected to be delivered several weeks after the hearings conclude.
-wilayah.com.my
