Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway, is set to appear in court after prosecutors filed a wide-ranging indictment against him that includes allegations of rape, domestic violence, and other offenses. The indictment represents one of the most serious scandals to touch the Norwegian royal family in recent decades.

Authorities announced Monday that Høiby, 28, faces 32 criminal counts, including four charges of rape involving different women between 2018 and November 2024. According to prosecutors, the alleged assaults occurred after consensual intercourse, when the women were asleep, and were secretly filmed on his phone. The case also includes allegations of abusing a former partner, recording women without their consent, making death threats, harassing police, and committing traffic violations. If convicted on the gravest charges, he could face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

"This case is very serious. Rape and violence in close relationships are very serious acts that can leave lasting traces and destroy lives," said state attorney Sturla Henriksbø as the indictment was presented, noting that Høiby's position within the royal family carried no legal weight. "His status as part of the royal family will not mean that he is treated more leniently or strictly than if similar acts were committed by others," Henriksbø said.

Expanded indictment

This indictment builds on earlier charges filed in June 2025, when he had already been accused of 23 offences, including three counts of rape. The expanded list of charges reflects what prosecutors describe as a pattern of persistent misconduct that allegedly continued even while Høiby was under investigation.

Høiby's legal team, Petar Sekulic and Ellen Holager Andaenæs, have rejected the most serious allegations. "Our client denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence. He will present a detailed account of his version of events before the court," Sekulic said.

The trial is expected to begin in January 2026 and last for about six weeks. Legal observers suggest it will be one of the most closely watched trials in Norway in years, not only because of the severity of the accusations but also because of the defendant's ties to the monarchy.

Høiby, who does not hold a royal title and is outside the line of succession, has long been a controversial figure in Norway. He was previously convicted of drug possession in 2017 and has faced scrutiny over his associations with criminal networks, as well as incidents involving assault and restraining orders in 2024. His lifestyle, including hosting parties on royal property attended by members of outlaw biker groups, has fueled public debate about the royal family's image.

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The Norwegian Royal Court issued a short statement saying, "It is for the courts to consider this matter and reach a decision. We have no further comment." Meanwhile, analysts note that the scandal has already contributed to declining public support for the monarchy, with polls showing a significant drop in approval ratings since Høiby's legal troubles became public.