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Marius Borg Hoiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has pleaded not guilty to multiple criminal charges, including rape, as his trial opened in Oslo.
The case has attracted strong public and international attention and has raised concerns about its impact on the image of Norway’s royal family.
Background of the Defendant
Hoiby, 29, is the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship. He is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to the Norwegian throne.
He does not hold a royal title and has no official duties within the royal household.
Charges Read in Court
At the Oslo District Court, prosecutors formally read out 38 charges against Hoiby. These include four counts of rape, abuse in close relationships, acts of violence, threats, drug related offences, and traffic violations.
Hoiby stood in court for about 24 minutes while the charges were presented. He responded “no” when asked if he pleaded guilty to the most serious accusations.
Partial Guilty Pleas
While denying all sexual abuse charges, Hoiby admitted guilt to some offences. These include several driving violations, an aggravated drug offence, and breaching a restraining order.
He also entered partial guilty pleas related to threats and aggravated assault. Throughout the proceedings, he spoke quietly and consulted frequently with his legal team.
Possible Prison Sentence
Prosecutors have said Hoiby could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The trial is scheduled to continue until March 19.
Seven alleged victims are expected to testify during the proceedings. Some testimonies will be heard behind closed doors due to the sensitive nature of the evidence.
Equality Before the Law
The prosecutor told the court that Hoiby’s family background would not affect the legal process. He stressed that all defendants must receive equal treatment under the law, regardless of status or family ties.
The judge addressed the courtroom in English at the start of the trial, noting the strong international interest. The court also banned recordings and photography inside the courtroom.
Recent Arrest and Detention
Hoiby had been free pending trial until police arrested him on Sunday over new allegations. These include assault, threats involving a knife, and another breach of a restraining order.
On Monday, the court approved a request to keep him in custody for up to four weeks, citing the risk of reoffending. His defence team said they are considering an appeal against the detention.
Royal Family Response
Crown Prince Haakon has said that neither he nor Crown Princess Mette-Marit plans to attend the trial. The royal household has also stated that it will not comment while proceedings are ongoing.
Although the Norwegian royal family remains largely popular, the case has drawn significant scrutiny and has affected public perception.
Additional Scrutiny on Crown Princess
The trial has coincided with renewed media attention on Crown Princess Mette-Marit following the release of new documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.
The documents reportedly mention her several times. She previously said she regretted having any contact with Epstein and admitted she should have investigated his background more carefully.
In a statement, she said she showed poor judgment and described the situation as deeply embarrassing.
