Marius Borg Høiby Detained Prior to Oslo Trial Amid New Allegations
Norwegian authorities have taken Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, into custody just days before the start of his high-profile trial in Oslo. Høiby, 29, is facing an array of serious charges, including allegations of sexual assault, domestic violence, bodily harm, property damage, and breaches of restraining orders.
The latest development stems from additional accusations that surfaced over the weekend. According to police statements, Høiby is suspected of committing physical assault, threatening someone with a knife, and violating a court-issued prohibition on contact. The arrest occurred on Sunday evening, intensifying public and media attention ahead of the scheduled court proceedings.
The upcoming trial has attracted widespread interest in Norway and internationally. Høiby stands accused on 38 counts, with the case focusing on sexual offenses, domestic abuse, and other criminal acts. While Høiby has denied the charges related to sexual crimes, he previously admitted to violent behavior against a former partner, attributing his actions to the influence of alcohol and cocaine during the summer of 2024. He also acknowledged causing damage to her property during that incident.
The legal proceedings are expected to extend through mid-March. The trial will begin with the reading of the indictment and opening statements, followed by Høiby's response to the charges. Multiple individuals, including alleged victims and witnesses--some of whom are former partners--are scheduled to provide testimony. In adherence to privacy regulations, much of the testimony from these individuals will occur behind closed doors, and strict reporting guidelines have been implemented to protect their identities.
The case has placed considerable strain on the Norwegian royal family. Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon are not expected to appear in court, opting to stay out of the public spotlight during the proceedings. The investigation and the subsequent legal process have reportedly been challenging for the royal family, and statements from the palace have emphasized support for those affected by the case.
Public interest in the trial is heightened not only due to Høiby's relationship to the royal family, but also because of the broader implications for the reputation of the monarchy. Despite being raised within the royal household alongside his half-siblings, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, Høiby is not a formal member of the royal house and has not undertaken official royal duties.
Høiby's background includes a brief period studying business administration in the United States, followed by various roles in the private sector, such as work in sales, fashion, and motorcycle mechanics. In recent statements, he has spoken about ongoing struggles with mental health and substance abuse. Law enforcement had already concluded that there was substantial evidence of criminal activity prior to his most recent arrest, with several charges falling under Norway's sexual assault statutes.
The presumption of innocence remains in effect until a verdict is reached. Observers and commentators are closely monitoring the proceedings, seeking to understand the circumstances that led to the allegations against an individual who grew up in a privileged environment. The trial is set to provide further clarity as testimonies are heard and evidence is presented in court.