August 18, 2025 | Oslo, Norway — In a case that has sent shockwaves through Norway and the broader European royal community, Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been formally indicted on 32 criminal counts, including four charges of rape, multiple instances of domestic violence, and violations of privacy. The indictment was announced Monday by Norway’s Attorney General Sturla Henriksbø, who described the charges as “among the most serious criminal allegations ever brought against a member of a royal household.”
Høiby, 28, was arrested in August 2024 following an alleged assault on a former girlfriend. What began as a single incident has since expanded into a sprawling criminal investigation, uncovering a disturbing pattern of abuse, coercion, and criminal misconduct spanning several years.
A Royal Son Without a Royal Role
Marius Borg Høiby was born in 1997 from a relationship Crown Princess Mette-Marit had prior to marrying Crown Prince Haakon in 2001. Though raised within the royal household alongside his half-siblings Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, Høiby has never held an official title or public role within the monarchy.
Despite his unofficial status, Høiby has long been a public figure in Norway, often appearing in media coverage of the royal family. His indictment marks an unprecedented moment in Norwegian history, as no member of the royal household—official or otherwise—has ever faced such serious criminal charges.
Details of the Charges
According to prosecutors, the 32-count indictment includes:
- Four counts of rape, allegedly committed in 2018, 2023, and 2024
- Multiple counts of domestic violence and assault against two former partners
- Violations of restraining orders
- Disturbing the peace and vandalism
- Secretly filming the genitals of several women without their knowledge or consent
“These are very serious acts that can leave lasting scars and destroy lives,” Henriksbø said during a press briefing. “The fact that Marius Borg Høiby is a member of the royal family should, of course, not mean that he should be treated more lightly or more severely than if similar acts had been committed by others.”
The maximum penalty for the charges is 10 years in prison, though legal experts say the severity and multiplicity of the offenses could result in a longer sentence if aggravating factors are proven.
Admission and Public Statement
Following his arrest in August 2024, Høiby admitted to assault and property damage in connection with the incident that triggered the investigation. In a public statement issued ten days later, he said he had acted “under the influence of alcohol and cocaine after an argument,” and acknowledged struggling “for a long time with substance abuse and mental troubles.”
He reportedly underwent drug rehabilitation in London after spending a week in pre-trial detention. His legal team has not commented on the new charges, and the royal family has yet to issue an official statement.
Impact on the Norwegian Monarchy
The indictment has cast a shadow over the Norwegian royal family, which has long enjoyed high approval ratings and a reputation for modesty and civic engagement. Crown Princess Mette-Marit, known for her advocacy on HIV/AIDS and mental health, now faces scrutiny over her son’s conduct and the royal household’s response.
“This scandal is a heavy blow to the monarchy,” said Lars Helle, editor-in-chief of Dagbladet. “While Marius Borg Høiby is not a titled royal, he was raised in the palace and represents the family in the public eye. The gravity of these charges cannot be overstated.”
Royal watchers note that the family’s silence may be strategic, allowing the legal process to unfold without interference. However, calls for transparency and accountability are growing louder.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Høiby is expected to appear in Oslo District Court for arraignment later this month. Prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing and that additional charges could be filed if new evidence emerges. Victim advocacy groups have praised the Attorney General’s office for pursuing the case with “courage and clarity.”
“This sends a powerful message that no one is above the law,” said Ingrid Johansen, director of the Norwegian Center for Victims of Abuse. “We must ensure that survivors are heard and that justice is served.”
The case is likely to dominate headlines in Norway for months to come, with implications for the royal family, the justice system, and public discourse around domestic violence and sexual assault.
International Reaction
The indictment has drawn international attention, with media outlets across Europe and North America covering the story. Human rights organizations have commended Norway’s legal system for treating the case with seriousness and impartiality.
“This is a test of institutional integrity,” said Nadine Strossen, former president of the ACLU. “The fact that the accused is connected to royalty should not—and apparently will not—affect the pursuit of justice.”
As the legal process unfolds, Norway finds itself at the center of a global conversation about accountability, privilege, and the rule of law.
References
- Yahoo News. (2025, August 18). Son of Norway princess charged with four rapes. Yahoo News. https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/son-norway-princess-charged-four-133518036.html
- Economic Times. (2025, August 18). Son of Norway princess charged with four rapes: Prosecutor. The Economic Times. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/son-of-norway-princess-charged-with-four-rapes-prosecutor/articleshow/123366447.cms
- News18. (2025, August 19). Norway Royal Scandal: Crown Princess’ Son Charged With Rape, Assault In 32-Count Indictment. News18. https://www.news18.com/world/norway-royal-scandal-crown-princess-son-charged-with-rape-assault-in-32-count-indictment-ws-kl-9512770.html
- France24. (2025, August 18). Son of Norway princess charged with four rapes. France24. https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250818-son-of-norway-princess-charged-with-four-rapes
- RTL Today. (2025, August 18). 32 offences in total: Son of Norway princess charged with four rapes. RTL Today. https://today.rtl.lu/news/world/a/2329432.html