Norwegian prosecutors have announced that Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been indicted on a total of 32 counts, which include four charges of rape. The indictment follows a year-long police investigation into allegations against Høiby, who is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon. If convicted of the most serious charges, he could face up to 10 years in prison.
The formal charges, announced on Monday by public prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø, detail a wide range of alleged offenses. In addition to the four counts of rape, the indictment includes domestic abuse against a former partner, physical violence, vandalism, and violating restraining orders. He is also charged with secretly filming the genitals of a number of women without their knowledge or consent. According to Henriksbø, investigators possess photographic and video evidence. The alleged rapes are said to have occurred between 2018 and 2024.
Marius Borg Høiby, who does not hold a royal title or official public duties, was first arrested in August of last year on suspicion of assaulting a girlfriend. His lawyer, Petar Sekulic, has stated that his client denies the most serious charges, including those of rape and domestic violence, but intends to plead guilty to some lesser charges. The Royal Palace has refrained from commenting on the case, issuing a brief statement that it is a matter for the courts to decide. The trial is expected to begin in January and will be one of the most closely watched legal proceedings in Norway in recent memory.