Photo Credit: Getty Images
A shocking development has sent ripples through Norway's royal circles, as Marius Borg Høiby, the 27-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been arrested on severe criminal allegations that challenge the family's public image.
The Oslo Police District announced on November 19, 2024, that Borg Høiby was taken into custody late Monday evening on preliminary rape charges. According to official police statements, the accusation involves "sexual intercourse with someone who is unconscious or unable to resist the act."
This is not an isolated incident. Court records reveal a troubling pattern of legal confrontations. In August 2024, Borg Høiby was previously detained following an alleged physical and psychological assault on a woman in her 20s, who subsequently received hospital treatment for a concussion.
Legal experts note the significance of the preliminary charge, which allows authorities to detain suspects during ongoing investigations. The victim's lawyer, Hege Salomon, told Norwegian broadcaster NRK that the case was initiated by police, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations.
Borg Høiby's complex relationship with the royal establishment adds nuance to the story. Despite being the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, he holds no royal title and was designated to lead a private life.
In a 2017 statement, the princess acknowledged the unique challenges of his position, describing him as "an exceptionally important part of our family" while distinguishing his role from traditional royal responsibilities.
The current allegations encompass multiple legal infractions. Beyond the rape suspicion, Borg Høiby faces charges of violating restraining orders and driving without a valid license. These incidents involve four women and one man, painting a broader picture of potential systemic behavioral issues.
Norwegian media reports indicate that Borg Høiby denies the accusations. He remains in detention in Greenland, with authorities yet to determine whether he will be formally remanded in custody.
This incident occurs against the backdrop of the Norwegian royal family's typically pristine public perception. Crown Princess Mette-Marit, known for her unconventional background, has herself been a subject of media scrutiny since her 2001 marriage to Crown Prince Haakon.
The royal palace has maintained strategic silence, offering no immediate comments on the unfolding legal drama that threatens to cast a long shadow over Norway's monarchical institution.
