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The Norwegian royal family is currently facing significant scrutiny as Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, stands trial. He has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including four counts of rape. This trial not only impacts Høiby but also casts a shadow over the royal family, particularly amidst revelations regarding his mother’s connections to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Høiby, who does not hold an official royal title, faces a total of 38 charges, which include domestic violence, assault, and drug possession. The legal proceedings began at the Oslo District Court, where a conviction could lead to a lengthy prison sentence.
Details of the charges
Among the most serious allegations are four counts of rape that reportedly occurred between 2018 and 2026. Additionally, he faces accusations of violence and threats against former partners, including one incident involving a violation of a restraining order. These charges raise serious concerns about Høiby’s behavior and the potential risks associated with his release.
Recent developments
Just days before the trial, Høiby was arrested again, this time due to new accusations including assault and threats made with a knife. This incident reportedly occurred over the weekend, prompting authorities to request his detention for up to four weeks. The court justified this request by citing the risk of reoffending, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
His defense attorney, Petar Sekulic, has stated that Høiby denies all allegations of sexual abuse and contests the majority of the charges related to violence. The legal team is currently considering an appeal against the decision to remand him in custody.
Impact on the royal family
This trial coincides with renewed criticism for Crown Princess Mette-Marit due to her past associations with Jeffrey Epstein. Recently released documents from the U.S. Department of Justice revealed her name mentioned several hundred times, detailing her connections with the late sex offender.
Mette-Marit’s response
In light of these revelations, Mette-Marit has expressed regret for not thoroughly investigating Epstein’s background. She described their interactions as “simply embarrassing” and acknowledged exercising poor judgment by maintaining contact with him. The royal palace confirmed that she had borrowed one of Epstein’s properties in Palm Beach, Florida, complicating the family’s public image.
As the trial progresses, Mette-Marit has committed to taking responsibility for her past decisions, particularly regarding her association with Epstein. She expressed deep sympathy for the victims of Epstein’s abuse, emphasizing her desire to distance herself from the past.
Public reaction and future implications
The unfolding of Høiby’s trial has generated significant public interest, particularly as it reflects on the broader implications for the Norwegian royal family. While the royals generally enjoy a favorable reputation in Norway, the combination of Høiby’s legal troubles and the Epstein controversy has begun to tarnish that image.
Despite the circumstances, Crown Prince Haakon has reiterated that Høiby is not a member of the royal household and is subject to the same laws as any other citizen. He has chosen not to attend the trial, indicating that the family will refrain from commenting during the proceedings, which are expected to last until mid-March.
Høiby, who does not hold an official royal title, faces a total of 38 charges, which include domestic violence, assault, and drug possession. The legal proceedings began at the Oslo District Court, where a conviction could lead to a lengthy prison sentence.0