Norwegian Crown Princess’s Son Faces Rape Trial

The eldest son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit appeared in court in Oslo on Tuesday to stand trial on multiple serious criminal charges, including rape, sexual abuse, domestic violence, drug offences and traffic violations, in a case that has intensified scrutiny of Norway’s royal family.

Prosecutors allege that Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, raped and sexually assaulted several women between 2018 and 2024. Court filings state that some of the alleged offences were recorded by the defendant while the victims were asleep, adding to the gravity of the accusations.

If convicted, Hoiby could face a prison sentence of up to 16 years. The trial is scheduled to run until March 19 and is expected to attract sustained national and international media attention. At the opening of proceedings, Hoiby pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape, while acknowledging responsibility for certain lesser offences.

The defendant has previously cited long-standing mental health challenges and substance abuse issues. However, prosecutors stressed that his family background would play no role in judicial proceedings. Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo told AFP that Hoiby would be treated neither more leniently nor more harshly because of his royal connections.

Hoiby, who is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, was arrested multiple times in 2024 and formally indicted in August 2025. Although initially released pending trial, he was taken back into custody on Sunday following new allegations involving assault, knife threats and breaches of a restraining order. While these additional claims are not part of the current trial, an Oslo court has ordered his detention for up to four weeks, citing the risk of reoffending.

The case comes at a sensitive moment for the Norwegian royal household, which is led by King Harald V and has traditionally enjoyed strong public support. Although Hoiby holds no royal title or official role, the proceedings have cast a shadow over the monarchy.

The trial also coincides with renewed public attention on Crown Princess Mette-Marit following her name appearing repeatedly in newly released files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The crown princess has previously acknowledged having had contact with Epstein and publicly expressed regret over what she described as a serious lapse in judgment.