Marius Borg Høiby Faces Court as Sensitive Evidence Emerges and Witness Withdraws
The trial involving Marius Borg Høiby, son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, commenced at Oslo District Court with significant public scrutiny. Høiby is confronting a total of 38 charges, including multiple counts of sexual assault, domestic violence, and drug-related offenses. The courtroom proceedings began with the formal reading of the charges, while Høiby sat alongside his legal representatives.
Several alleged victims were present in close proximity to the defendant. The prosecution presented a series of sensitive materials, including digital evidence retrieved from Høiby's mobile device. According to investigative reports, these materials consist of photographs and videos depicting intimate acts, reportedly recorded without the awareness or consent of the individuals involved. One incident was said to have occurred at the royal family's residence, Skaugum estate.
As the trial unfolded, the environment in the courtroom grew increasingly tense. Høiby denied the accusations of sexual assault, though he acknowledged partial responsibility for some offenses. The prosecution also indicated that biometric data, specifically heart rate records from a smartwatch belonging to one of the alleged victims, may be introduced as evidence to support the claims. This particular incident allegedly took place in October 2023, following an encounter arranged through a dating application, during which the accuser claims to have been assaulted while asleep. The prosecution asserts that unauthorized recordings were made during this event.
Following the midday recess, the strain of the proceedings became apparent. One of the complainants, identified as the individual connected to the 2023 incident, did not return to the courtroom after the break. The reasons for her absence remained undisclosed, and no official statement was provided by her legal counsel. Høiby, who remains in pretrial detention, reportedly spent the recess period in custody.
The trial is scheduled to continue over several weeks, with testimony expected from more than fifty witnesses, including experts in sleep science and law enforcement personnel. Should Høiby be convicted, he could face a prison sentence of up to ten years. The Norwegian royal family has indicated that they will not participate in the proceedings, emphasizing that Høiby should be subject to the same legal standards as any Norwegian citizen.
This case has generated considerable attention in Norway due to the involvement of a member of the royal family and the gravity of the allegations. The court is expected to reach a verdict by March, following a comprehensive examination of all evidence and testimonies.