Royal scandal: Norwegian princess’s son accused of rape, assault

International

IN A case that has gripped the Norwegian public, Oslo authorities have charged Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, with multiple counts of sexual assault, including rape and bodily harm.

The charges were formally announced Friday following a months-long investigation involving what police described as a “double-digit” number of alleged victims. Høiby, 28, now faces one count of rape involving intercourse, two additional counts of rape without intercourse, four counts of sexual assault, and two counts of bodily harm.

According to Oslo Police Attorney Andreas Kruszewski, the case is supported by evidence including text messages, witness statements, and the results of police searches. He confirmed that Høiby cooperated with investigators throughout the questioning process, which has now concluded.

“I cannot go into further detail about the number of victims in the case beyond confirming that it is a double-digit number,” Kruszewski said in a CNN report.

Høiby has been under public scrutiny since a series of arrests in 2024 led to preliminary charges of bodily harm and criminal damage. These incidents triggered a broader investigation that resulted in the charges now filed.

In an email to the Associated Press, defense attorney Petar Sekulic said Høiby “is absolutely taking the accusations very seriously, but doesn’t acknowledge any wrongdoing in most of the cases — especially the cases regarding sexual abuse and violence.”

He remains free while the case moves forward and is presumed innocent unless found guilty in court.

The royal palace has not issued a public statement in response to the charges. It declined to comment when contacted by the Associated Press. According to Norwegian news agency NTB, palace officials stated they would not offer any remarks while the case follows standard legal procedures.

The development has made headlines across Norway, where the monarchy enjoys broad popularity. Høiby previously lived with Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, and their children, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus. He now lives in a separate residence nearby, according to his attorney.

Often referred to as “Little Marius” during his youth, Høiby grew up in the public spotlight and shared the privileges of royal life, though he is not in the line of succession. His biological father, Morten Borg, has served prison time for drug-related and violent offenses. Høiby has previously spoken openly about his own past struggles with cocaine use and addiction.

The royal family has long been subject to public attention for its unconventional background. Mette-Marit’s 2001 marriage to Crown Prince Haakon drew significant attention, as she was a single mother with a past linked to individuals with criminal convictions.(MyTVCebu)