Norway’s Royal Family Faces Scrutiny as Crown Princess’s Son Stands Trial for Rape and Other Charges

Oslo, Norway – The Norwegian royal family is grappling with a major scandal as Marius Borg Høiby, the 29-year-vintage son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, stands trial on charges including four counts of rape. The case, which began on February 3, 2026, at Oslo district court, is considered the most significant to confront the Norwegian monarchy in its 120-year history [CBS News].

Charges and Allegations

Marius Borg Høiby faces a total of 38 charges, some dating back to 2018. These include four counts of rape, as well as allegations of assault, threats with a knife, and violation of a restraining order [PBS]. He pleaded not guilty to the four rape accusations at the start of the trial, stating he believed the sexual encounters were consensual [Le Monde]. Prosecutors allege the rapes occurred while the women were sleeping or incapacitated due to intoxication [Le Monde].

Recent Developments and Arrests

Just prior to the start of the rape trial, on February 2, 2026, Høiby was arrested on suspicion of assault, making threats with a knife, and violating a restraining order [PBS]. He was remanded in custody for four weeks. He had previously been arrested in August 2024, suspected of assaulting his girlfriend, and admitted to acting “under the influence of alcohol and cocaine” [CBS News].

Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties

The trial is expected to last seven weeks, concluding around March 19, 2026 [CBS News]. Heavy court restrictions are in place, including a ban on photographing the defendant inside or outside the court [BBC News]. If convicted of the rape charges, Høiby could face up to 16 years in prison [CBS News]. He has confessed to some of the less serious charges, including assaults and traffic offenses [Le Monde].

Impact on the Royal Family

The case has brought intense scrutiny to the Norwegian royal family, coinciding with criticism directed at Crown Princess Mette-Marit following revelations of her connections to the late Jeffrey Epstein [BBC News]. Unsealed US documents revealed her extensive contacts with the convicted sex offender. Mette-Marit has acknowledged “poor judgement” in the matter, leading to one organization dropping her as a patron [BBC News]. Historians have described the scandal as the biggest to face the Norwegian monarchy in its history [CBS News].