The son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit went on trial on Tuesday in a high-profile case involving allegations of rape, domestic violence, assault and drug-related offences, marking one of the most serious scandals to hit the Norwegian monarchy in peacetime.
Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, faces 38 criminal charges, including four counts of rape, several counts of violence against former partners and a narcotics offence. If convicted on the most serious charges, he could face multiple years in prison.
Hoiby pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape as the proceedings got underway. Wearing a brown jumper over a white T-shirt and dark green trousers, he sat impassively between his two lawyers.
He does not hold a royal title and is not in the line of succession. His lawyer, Petar Sekulic, told Reuters that Hoiby denies the charges of rape and domestic violence but has admitted guilt in some lesser offences.
“He will give a detailed explanation about this in court,” Sekulic said.
The trial is scheduled to run until March 19. Hoiby is expected to testify on Wednesday.
Arrest and custody
Just days before the trial began, Norwegian police detained Hoiby on suspicion of causing bodily harm, threatening a woman with a knife and violating a restraining order. A court ruled on Monday that he could be held in custody for four weeks, citing the risk of reoffending. His lawyer said an appeal is being considered.
Royal family to stay away
Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit will not attend the court proceedings. In a statement, Haakon said he trusted the justice system to handle the case fairly and emphasised that Hoiby would be treated like any other citizen.
“We love him, he is an important part of our family. He is a Norwegian citizen, so he has the same responsibilities as everyone else, as well as the same rights,” Haakon said.
He also expressed sympathy for the alleged victims, adding:
“We think about them, we know many are going through a difficult time.”
What is he accused of?
Hoiby faces 38 charges, including:
Previous admission
In 2024, police named Hoiby as a suspect in a separate assault case involving a former partner. He later admitted to causing bodily harm and damaging property while under the influence of alcohol and cocaine, expressing regret for his actions.
Who is Marius Borg Hoiby?
Marius Borg Hoiby is the 29-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a relationship before her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon. While he has often appeared with the royal family, he holds no royal title and has no official duties.
What could be the punishment?
If found guilty of the most serious charges, Hoiby could face up to 10 years in prison, with the possibility of a longer sentence if multiple convictions are combined.
Why is this case significant?
Legal experts and historians say this is the most serious crisis for Norway’s royal family in modern times, despite Hoiby not being a royal himself. The case has drawn intense scrutiny because of its scale and timing.
Why is the monarchy under added pressure?
The trial coincides with renewed criticism of Crown Princess Mette-Marit over her past contact with the late US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She recently apologised publicly for her “poor judgment” in maintaining contact with him after his conviction.
What happens next?
The trial will continue until March 19, with multiple alleged victims expected to testify. A verdict is expected several weeks after the proceedings conclude.
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