The eldest son of Norway’s crown princess has been apprehended just before the commencement of his trial, facing allegations of rape and other offenses, causing distress to the royal family, according to police reports on Monday.
Marius Borg Høiby was taken into custody on Sunday evening, charged with assault, threats involving a knife, and breaching a restraining order, as stated by the police. They have requested a four-week detention citing concerns about the possibility of repeat offenses.
His trial is scheduled to begin at the Oslo district court on Tuesday, with the indictment comprising 38 charges, such as rape, domestic abuse against a former partner, violent acts against another individual, and the transportation of 3.5 kilograms of marijuana. Additional accusations include issuing death threats and traffic infractions.
Høiby has been under scrutiny since his multiple arrests in 2024 for various alleged wrongdoings. However, he had remained free pending the trial until his recent arrest.
Prosecutors have indicated that Høiby, aged 29, may face a sentence of up to 10 years if found guilty during the trial, anticipated to run until mid-March.
Born out of Mette-Marit’s previous relationship, Høiby is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to the throne. Despite the general popularity of the royal family in Norway, the Høiby case has tarnished their reputation.
Ahead of the trial, the release of the latest Epstein files on Friday shed negative light on Mette-Marit. The documents revealed numerous references to the crown princess, who had previously expressed regret for associating with Epstein in 2019. The newly disclosed emails depicted Mette-Marit’s stay at Epstein’s property in Palm Beach, Florida, in early 2013, which she confirmed through a mutual acquaintance.
In a statement issued by the royal house, Mette-Marit accepted responsibility for not investigating Epstein’s background more thoroughly and for not recognizing his true character earlier. She expressed deep regret and acknowledged her poor judgment, labeling the situation as embarrassing. Mette-Marit also conveyed sympathy and support for Epstein’s victims.
In addition to Mette-Marit’s Epstein links and Høiby’s trial, Norway’s royal family has faced negative publicity related to the business ventures of Crown Prince Haakon’s sister, Princess Märtha Louise. In 2024, amidst the media attention on Høiby’s case, she tied the knot with Durek Verrett, an American self-proclaimed shaman, which drew criticism.