A member of Norway’s royal family is confronting a series of grave criminal allegations following a lengthy police investigation. Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been formally charged with nine offenses, including three counts of rape.
According to authorities in Oslo, the charges span several years and involve multiple alleged victims. The specific accusations include one count of rape involving intercourse, two counts of rape without intercourse, four instances of sexual assault, and two cases of bodily harm. The investigation, which has included the collection of text messages, witness testimonies, and evidence from police searches, began with the individual’s initial arrest in August of last year.
The accused, who holds no formal public role within the monarchy, has reportedly cooperated with the investigative process. Through his legal representative, Petar Sekulic, he has stated that he takes the accusations seriously but disputes any criminal wrongdoing in the majority of the cases, particularly those involving violence and sexual abuse. He currently remains free as the judicial process continues, with a potential trial pending.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the individual involved. The allegations include a reported incident from 2018, where he is accused of assaulting a television personality at a private gathering. The situation escalated last summer following an arrest connected to a violent domestic incident that resulted in a woman being hospitalized.
In a previous statement issued by his lawyer, the individual acknowledged struggles with substance abuse and mental health challenges. He expressed regret for specific actions, citing intoxication from alcohol and cocaine during a particular altercation, and apologized to the woman involved.
Subsequent arrests occurred in September and November of last year on charges including the violation of a restraining order and additional rape allegations. At one point, restrictions were placed on him while in custody over concerns about potential interference with evidence.
The police investigation has reportedly uncovered video material that is now part of the case file. The path forward hinges on the judicial system’s review of the extensive evidence gathered by law enforcement.
