What happens when scandal touches royalty—even if it’s just one step removed? Norway is grappling with that question.
Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, was charged with 32 offences, including four counts of rape.
Høiby, who was born before Mette-Marit married Crown Prince Haakon, denies the most serious allegations but admits he’ll plead guilty to some lesser charges.
His lawyer, Petar Sekulic, insists: “He does not agree with the claims regarding rape and domestic violence.”
What Are The Charges?
The charges are wide-ranging. They include abuse of a former partner and violations of restraining orders.
They include secretly filming women’s genitals without their consent.
Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø confirmed that if convicted of the gravest charges, Høiby could face up to 10 years in prison.
Perhaps most shocking: one of the alleged rapes reportedly took place after his arrest.
NRK, Norway’s public broadcaster, revealed he was detained three times in 2024—August, September, and November—yet the accusations kept piling up.
Crown Prince Haakon, who could one day be king, offered a measured response: it’s ultimately “up to the courts.”
He acknowledged the ordeal is “challenging and difficult” for all involved.
The trial is expected in January, with proceedings stretching six weeks.
For Norway, it’s not just about one man—it’s about how close scandal can creep to the palace gates.
