Norway's Crown Princess Son Charged with Multiple Sexual Offenses

Oslo, Norway – Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been officially charged with multiple counts, including rape, sexual assault, and bodily harm, following a protracted investigation by Oslo police. This announcement, made on June 27, 2025, comes after months of scrutiny and numerous allegations from a ‘double-digit’ number of alleged victims.

The charges against Høiby, who is 28 years old, include one instance of rape involving intercourse, two incidents of rape without intercourse, four counts of sexual assault, and two charges related to bodily harm, as detailed by Oslo police attorney Andreas Kruszewski in a news conference. Kruszewski confirmed that the investigation had collected substantial evidence, including text messages and witness testimonies, along with results from police searches.

Høiby, who is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, has faced multiple arrests since 2024 in connection with these allegations. His defense attorney, Petar Sekulic, expressed that while Høiby takes the accusations seriously, he does not acknowledge wrongdoing in most of the cases, specifically concerning the charges of sexual abuse and violence. The royal family has remained silent on the matter, not providing an immediate response to requests for comments from news outlets.

The implications of these charges extend beyond the individual case, as they raise significant questions about accountability, the treatment of sexual offenses in the royal family context, and the societal response to such allegations in Norway. Dr. Eva Lindstrom, a sociologist at the University of Oslo, noted that “the public's perception of royalty may shift dramatically in light of these serious allegations, potentially influencing future interactions between the royal family and the Norwegian populace.”

Furthermore, the case has garnered international attention, with various media organizations highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by victims of sexual assault in coming forward. The sheer number of alleged victims has sparked discussions about the systemic issues surrounding sexual violence and the need for comprehensive support systems for survivors.

As the legal proceedings unfold, Marius Borg Høiby remains free pending trial and is entitled to a presumption of innocence until proven guilty. The evolving nature of this case will likely have lasting repercussions for the Norwegian royal family and the broader societal discourse regarding sexual misconduct and accountability.

In conclusion, the charges against Høiby not only mark a significant moment in Norwegian royal history but also serve as a catalyst for vital conversations about sexual violence and the responsibilities of public figures. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, anticipating both legal outcomes and societal reactions as this high-profile case progresses.