Royal Family Member Faces Multiple Criminal Charges
Norwegian authorities confirmed the arrest of Marius Borg Høiby, eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, on Sunday evening as his high-profile criminal trial approaches. The 29-year-old faces 38 charges including rape, domestic abuse, drug trafficking, and death threats.
Pre-Trial Detention Requested
Law enforcement officials requested four weeks of detention prior to trial, citing concerns about potential reoffending. The Oslo District Court is scheduled to begin proceedings on Tuesday in a case expected to continue through mid-March. Convictions could result in a maximum 10-year prison sentence.
Charging documents detail allegations spanning multiple victims, including accusations of physical violence against two former partners and transportation of 3.5 kilograms of marijuana. Additional charges involve traffic violations and threatening behavior involving a knife.
Royal Connections Under Scrutiny
The defendant is the biological son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship and stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, Norway’s heir apparent. While the monarchy maintains widespread public support, the case has raised questions about royal family oversight.
Epstein Documents Complicate Royal Image
Newly released court records from the Jeffrey Epstein case reveal previously undisclosed connections between Crown Princess Mette-Marit and the convicted sex offender. Documents indicate the royal borrowed a Florida property from Epstein in 2013 through mutual acquaintances.
In an official statement, the Crown Princess acknowledged poor judgment: “I must take responsibility for not investigating Epstein’s background thoroughly. It’s simply embarrassing that I had any contact with him at all.” She extended sympathy to Epstein’s victims while accepting personal responsibility for the association.
Broader Royal Family Challenges
The controversy extends beyond Høiby’s case, with Princess Märtha Louise – sister to Crown Prince Haakon – facing criticism for her commercial ventures and recent marriage to American spiritualist Durek Verrett. Royal observers note these developments coincide with increased scrutiny of European monarchies worldwide.
Legal analysts suggest the upcoming trial’s outcome could significantly impact public perception of Norway’s constitutional monarchy as the proceedings unfold in Oslo this month.
