Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been thrust into the spotlight following serious criminal charges that have rocked the Norwegian royal family. On June 27, 2025, Oslo police announced that Høiby faces 23 criminal charges, including three counts of rape, sexual assault, and bodily harm, involving a double-digit number of alleged victims. This development marks the culmination of a 10-month investigation that began with his arrest in August 2024. The case has drawn global attention, raising questions about the royal family’s response and the broader implications for Norway’s monarchy. Let’s dive into the latest details surrounding this unfolding scandal.
Background of Marius Borg Høiby
Marius Borg Høiby, 28, is the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, born from a relationship before her 2001 marriage to Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to Norway’s throne. Unlike his half-siblings, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, Høiby holds no royal title or official duties. He grew up in the royal household at Skaugum, the residence of the crown prince and princess, often appearing in family photos. Despite his lack of formal royal status, his proximity to the monarchy has kept him in the public eye, making these allegations particularly shocking.
Høiby’s early life was marked by his mother’s transition from a single parent in Norway’s house music scene to royalty. His biological father, Morten Borg, has a history of convictions related to abuse and drug offenses, a detail that has resurfaced in recent coverage. Høiby’s public image has shifted dramatically from “Little Marius,” a beloved figure in Norway, to a man facing serious legal scrutiny.
The Charges Against Marius Borg Høiby
The Oslo police concluded their investigation on June 27, 2025, formally charging Høiby with 23 offenses. These include:
- Three counts of rape: One involving intercourse and two without intercourse, as defined under Norwegian law.
- Four counts of sexual assault: Allegations of sexually offensive behavior.
- Two counts of bodily harm: Physical assaults against victims.
- One count of abuse in a close relationship: Related to domestic violence allegations.
- Five violations of restraining orders: Breaches of court-issued protections.
- Additional charges: Including vandalism, issuing threats, insulting a police officer, and five traffic violations.
The investigation, which began after Høiby’s arrest on August 4, 2024, for allegedly assaulting his then-girlfriend, uncovered a pattern of alleged misconduct dating back to 2014. Police have identified a “double-digit” number of victims, with at least ten women and one man reportedly affected. One notable case involves Norwegian TV presenter Linni Meister, who was allegedly assaulted at a 2018 party in the basement of Skaugum, with evidence reportedly found on Høiby’s laptop.
Key Developments in the Case
The investigation into Marius Borg Høiby gained momentum after his initial arrest. In September 2024, a second arrest followed for another alleged assault, and by November, he faced preliminary rape charges, spending a week in custody—an unprecedented move for someone so close to the royal family. After his release, Høiby reportedly sought rehab in London, a detail that has sparked debate about his response to the allegations.
In early 2025, new evidence emerged, including videos and photos from a digital folder, leading to additional charges. One accuser, a woman in her 20s, was unaware of the alleged assault until police contacted her, highlighting the complexity of the case. Høiby’s legal team, led by attorneys Petar Sekulic and Ellen Holager Andenaes, has maintained that he denies most allegations, particularly those involving sexual abuse and violence. They claim some incidents began with consensual acts, a defense that has drawn criticism from victims’ advocates.
The case has now been handed to the state prosecutor, who will decide whether to proceed with a formal indictment. This step could lead to a trial, with potential penalties including several years in prison if Høiby is convicted.
Key Point Summary
- Charges Filed: Marius Borg Høiby faces 23 criminal charges, including three rapes, sexual assault, and bodily harm.
- Investigation Timeline: Began with an August 2024 arrest for assault, escalating with further arrests and charges by June 2025.
- Victims: A double-digit number, including at least ten women and one man, with allegations dating back to 2014.
- Royal Connection: Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has no royal title but is closely tied to the monarchy.
- Next Steps: The case is with the state prosecutor, awaiting a decision on formal indictment.
Public and Royal Family Response
The Norwegian royal family has remained largely silent on the matter. The Royal Palace issued a brief statement, noting that the case is “proceeding through Norway’s legal apparatus” and declining further comment. This reserved approach reflects the monarchy’s effort to maintain neutrality while the legal process unfolds. Crown Princess Mette-Marit has not publicly addressed her son’s situation, a decision that has sparked mixed reactions. Some commend her restraint, while others argue it distances the royal family from accountability.
Public sentiment, as seen on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, is divided. Supporters of Høiby point to his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, which he acknowledged in a statement through his lawyer in 2024. Critics, however, express outrage over the severity of the charges and the number of alleged victims. Social media discussions highlight the case’s impact on Norway’s monarchy, with some questioning whether it could affect public trust in the institution.
Legal and Social Implications
The charges against Marius Borg Høiby carry significant weight, not only for him but also for Norway’s legal and social landscape. The case underscores the country’s commitment to holding individuals accountable, regardless of their proximity to power. Norway’s legal system, known for its transparency, is under scrutiny as it navigates this high-profile case. The involvement of multiple victims, some of whom were unaware of the alleged assaults until contacted by police, raises questions about consent, evidence, and the use of digital records in modern investigations.
Socially, the scandal has sparked conversations about privilege and responsibility. Høiby’s lack of a royal title does little to shield him from public judgment, given his upbringing in the royal household. The allegations also highlight broader issues of gender-based violence, with advocates calling for greater support for victims. The case’s visibility on platforms like YouTube, where news outlets have posted updates, has amplified these discussions globally.
What’s Next for Marius Borg Høiby?
As the case moves to the state prosecutor, the focus shifts to whether a trial will proceed. If indicted, Høiby could face a lengthy legal battle, with potential consequences including imprisonment. His defense team’s strategy, emphasizing consensual interactions and his personal struggles, will likely play a central role. Meanwhile, the royal family’s silence suggests a cautious approach, possibly to avoid influencing the legal process or public opinion.
The outcome of this case could have lasting effects. A conviction would likely tarnish Høiby’s reputation and further strain the royal family’s public image. An acquittal, on the other hand, might not fully restore public trust, given the number of allegations. Either way, the saga is far from over, with Norway and the world watching closely.
Conclusion
The charges against Marius Borg Høiby mark a dramatic chapter in the Norwegian royal family’s history. From his arrests in 2024 to the formal charges announced in June 2025, the case has unfolded with increasing complexity, involving serious allegations of rape, sexual assault, and more. As the legal process continues, the public remains captivated, grappling with questions of justice, privilege, and accountability. Stay informed as this story develops, and share your thoughts on how this case might shape Norway’s monarchy moving forward.