Norway’s Royal Family Faces Scrutiny as Crown Prince’s Step-Son Stands Trial for Serious Crimes

Oslo, Norway – The Norwegian royal family is navigating a period of intense public scrutiny as the trial of Marius Borg Høiby, the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, unfolds. Simultaneously, newly released files linked Crown Princess Mette-Marit to the late Jeffrey Epstein, adding to the pressure on the monarchy.

Marius Borg Høiby’s Trial: Allegations and Charges

Marius Borg Høiby, 29, appeared in Oslo District Court on February 3, 2026, for a trial expected to last seven weeks, concluding around March 13, 2026. He has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape but admits to some of the 34 other charges against him. The charges include 38 criminal counts, encompassing rape, domestic violence, violence, assault, battery, threats, and drug possession. Six additional charges were added in mid-February 2026: one count of drug possession, three counts of speeding on a motorcycle, and two counts of violating a restraining order, with one more count added in early March [1]. He is currently held at Oslo Prison [1].

Evidence presented in court included testimony from a woman who recounted a sense of “betrayal and shock” after police showed her videos allegedly depicting sexual assault. She also expressed suspicion that she may have been drugged during an encounter at Høiby’s parents’ home [3]. Reports indicate Høiby appeared shaken in court and received hospital treatment after an alleged assault while in custody [3].

Crown Princess Mette-Marit and the Epstein Files

The trial coincides with the release of Epstein files that reveal correspondence between Crown Princess Mette-Marit and the convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. The palace has acknowledged the correspondence and stated that the Crown Princess has expressed regret and poor judgment regarding the exchanges [2]. She has postponed a private trip in light of the ongoing situation [3].

Family Background and Royal Status

Marius Borg Høiby is the son of Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby and Morten Borg. He was two years old when his mother married Crown Prince Haakon in 2001, becoming Crown Princess Mette-Marit [1]. He is not in line for the royal succession, as he was born before his mother’s marriage to the Crown Prince [2].

Ongoing Developments

The trial is unprecedented for the Norwegian royal family, known for its image of stability. The situation continues to develop, with the court proceedings and the fallout from the Epstein files drawing significant media attention and public debate [2].

Sources:

1. Marius Borg Høiby – Wikipedia
2. Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit in the spotlight over Epstein… – CNN
3. Woman tells trial of Norway royal’s son she suspects she was drugged – BBC News