New Charges Filed Against Crown Princess’ Son
Marius Borg Høiby, stepson of Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon, has been arrested on multiple new charges just days before his scheduled rape trial. Oslo police confirmed the 27-year-old was taken into custody Sunday evening facing allegations of assault, threats with a deadly weapon, and violating a restraining order.
Imminent Trial Complicated by New Arrest
The arrest occurred less than 48 hours before Høiby’s scheduled court appearance for 38 separate charges, including four counts of rape and domestic abuse against a former partner. Officials have requested a four-week detention period to prevent potential re-offending before the six-week trial commences.
Andreas Kruszewski, legal representative for Oslo police, stated: “We confirm the arrest on charges including assault, knife threats, and restraining order violations.” Additional pending charges against Høiby include death threats, violence against public officials, and drug trafficking offenses.
Royal Family Addresses Situation
In an official statement, Crown Prince Haakon emphasized: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this case. While Marius remains an important family member, he’s not part of the Royal House and bears the same legal responsibilities as all Norwegian citizens.”
The palace confirmed neither Crown Prince Haakon nor Crown Princess Mette-Marit will attend court proceedings. The statement continued: “We trust Norway’s judicial system to conduct proceedings properly and justly.”
Epstein Connection Adds Scrutiny
The arrest coincides with renewed attention on Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s past communications with Jeffrey Epstein. Recently released documents from the U.S. Department of Justice reveal email exchanges between the royal and the convicted sex offender.
In a statement to Norwegian media, the Crown Princess expressed regret: “I deeply regret not investigating Epstein’s background thoroughly. My poor judgment in maintaining contact remains embarrassing.” Court documents show Epstein contacted Mette-Marit in 2012 following a European royal wedding, to which she replied critically about the event’s atmosphere.
Høiby maintains his innocence regarding the most serious charges while reports suggest he may plead guilty to minor offenses. If convicted of rape, Norwegian law permits sentences up to ten years imprisonment.
