Norway’s Crown Princess Son Faces Intense Scrutiny in Rape Trial
OSLO – The trial of Marius Borg Høiby, son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit, continued on Wednesday with allegations of a potential drugging and sharp criticism of police tactics leveled by the defense. Høiby, 29, is charged with four counts of rape and 34 other offenses, including domestic violence and assault.
The first alleged victim testified she had no recollection of events following consensual sex at an “after-party” at the Crown Princess’s residence, and suspected she may have been drugged. This testimony came as Høiby’s defense team launched a frontal assault on the police investigation and the prosecution’s handling of the case.
Defense attorney Ellen Holager Andenæs sharply criticized the police’s September 2024 arrest of Høiby at a cabin in Skeikampen. According to Andenæs, the arrest involved “10–12 police officers with protective gear and balaclavas” over a violation of a restraining order, a response she deemed excessive. “Who other than Marius Borg Høiby is arrested by 10–12 police officers with protective gear and balaclavas for a breach of a restraining order over the phone?” she asked in court.
Charges Against Marius Borg Høiby
The prosecution alleges a total of 38 offenses:
- Four counts of rape
- Domestic violence against a former partner
- Multiple acts of violence, harassment, property damage, and violations of a restraining order against another former partner
- Filming under the clothing of several women without their knowledge or consent
- Threats of violence, obstruction of police, and multiple traffic violations
On January 19, 2026, additional charges were filed, including:
- One count of aggravated drug offenses
- Two additional violations of a restraining order
- Three counts of reckless driving with a motorcycle
Andenæs also questioned the manner of Høiby’s initial arrest, noting the dramatic scene at the cabin where he was with three companions. She argued that authorities could have handled the situation more discreetly.
The defense further criticized the prosecution’s presentation of the charges to the media in August, alleging it prejudiced the case. Andenæs stated that the way the charges were publicly outlined created a perception of guilt before the trial began, impacting Høiby negatively.
Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø defended the decision to hold a press conference, citing the high level of media interest and the need to provide a clear and accurate account of the allegations. He pointed to similar practices in high-profile cases such as the Baneheia, Bhatti, and Matapour trials.
Henriksbø also refuted claims that the prosecution had presented a complete recitation of the charges during the press conference, stating that the intention was to provide context and nuance, particularly regarding the rape allegations. He emphasized the importance of clarifying that Høiby was not accused of violent, forceful assaults.
The trial also revealed that police discovered 1.5 grams of marijuana and an illegal weapon during the search of the cabin. While the marijuana was found in Høiby’s room, a companion has admitted to possessing it and received a fine. The companion was fined 15,000 kroner for the illegal weapon.
The case has drawn significant attention, particularly given the involvement of the Norwegian royal family. Crown Princess Mette-Marit has faced additional scrutiny following the revelation of past correspondence with the late Jeffrey Epstein, leading her to postpone a private trip. The Crown Princess has expressed regret over the correspondence.
Høiby has admitted to some of the charges, including drug transportation, speeding, and violating a restraining order, but maintains his innocence regarding the rape allegations. The trial is expected to last seven weeks.
