The trial of the son of Norway’s crown princess, on charges that include rape, starts, opening weeks of proceedings in a case that has cast a shadow on the royal family’s image.
Marius Borg Høiby, 29, is the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship and the stepson of the heir to the throne, Crown Prince Haakon. He has no royal title or official duties.
Høiby has been under scrutiny since he was repeatedly arrested in 2024 on various allegations of wrongdoing.
Høiby took his seat at the Oslo district court this morning for the trial, which is scheduled to last until March 19.
He faces 38 counts. They include rape, abuse in a close relationship against one former partner, acts of violence against another and transporting 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds) of marijuana. Other charges include making death threats and traffic violations.
Prosecutors have said Høiby could face up to 10 years in prison, if convicted. Seven alleged victims are expected to testify. Parts of the proceedings, particularly their testimony, will be held behind closed doors.
Høiby’s defense team has said that he “denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence.”
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From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
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