Marius Borg Høiby faces serious charges of rape and assault
- Marius Borg Høiby is facing serious legal charges including multiple counts of rape and sexual assault following a months-long investigation.
- The investigation revealed a "double-digit" number of alleged victims, and various forms of evidence were collected during the inquiry.
- Høiby, who is a public figure, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court, while the case has sparked significant media interest in Norway.
In Norway, Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, has recently been charged with serious criminal offences including multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, and bodily harm. This announcement was made by Oslo police following a comprehensive investigation lasting several months, which involved a significant number of alleged victims. Authorities confirmed that the investigation had examined various forms of evidence, including text messages, witness testimonies, and police searches, before proceeding with the charges. Høiby, who is 28 years old and has no royal title, has been at the center of public scrutiny as he was previously arrested multiple times throughout the year 2024 in relation to these allegations. Oslo Police Attorney Andreas Kruszewski stated that the case involves a "double-digit" number of suspected victims but withheld further details regarding the specifics of those allegations. Høiby's legal team maintains that he is taking the accusations seriously but asserts he does not acknowledge wrongdoing in most cases, particularly concerning the claims of sexual offences and violence. As the investigation reached this pivotal point, Høiby remains free and is presumed innocent until the trial concludes, emphasizing the legal principle of presumption of innocence. In a country where the royal family enjoys considerable popularity, the case has drawn extensive media coverage and public interest, partly due to Høiby's background. He was raised in the royal household but does not hold an official royal title or duties, having lived previously with his mother and her family. Following the escalation of these legal issues, he has since moved to a separate residence nearby. The royal palace has preferred to remain silent on the ongoing case, choosing not to comment publicly as it proceeds through the judicial system. The controversy surrounding Høiby’s charges comes at a time when discussions around issues of sexual offenses and accountability are increasingly prominent in various global contexts. An environment of heightened awareness and advocacy for victims of sexual violence is influencing public sentiment and potential legal outcomes, situating this case within a broader dialogue regarding social responsibility and the treatment of such allegations in society.