Norway Royal Family Member Marius Borg Høiby Faces Rape and Assault Charges in Court

Trial Opens for Marius Borg Høiby

• 👑 The criminal trial of Marius Borg Høiby, son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, began on Tuesday, involving 38 charges.
• ⚖️ Høiby pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and one count of domestic violence.
• ✅ He did, however, plead guilty to lesser charges, including offensive sexual behavior, driving offenses, and partially guilty to aggravated assault and reckless behavior.

Legal Proceedings and Defense

• 🗣️ The lead prosecutor stated that Høiby would be treated like any other Norwegian citizen.
• 📰 Høiby's lawyer countered that her client has faced unfair treatment due to extensive media coverage, including thousands of articles and books.

Royal Family and Public Opinion

• 📉 A recent poll indicates a decline in support for the Norwegian monarchy, with favorability dropping to 61% from 72% last year, and support for a republic rising to 27%.
• 🏛️ Despite the poll, the Norwegian parliament overwhelmingly voted to maintain the monarchy.
• 🤝 Crown Prince Haakon expressed love for his stepson, stating he is an important part of their family and has the same rights and responsibilities as any other citizen.

Additional Charges and Past Incidents

• 📱 Prosecution detailed that charges include rape, some of which were allegedly filmed on Høiby's phone.
• 🌿 He also faces charges for possession and transporting 3.5 kg of marijuana.
• 👊 In 2024, police named Høiby as a suspect for physical assault against a former partner, admitting to causing bodily harm while under the influence of cocaine and alcohol, and damaging her apartment.
• ⚠️ On Sunday, police detained him on suspicion of bodily harm, wielding a knife, and violating a restraining order.