In a shocking development, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit has been arrested on suspicion of rape. Marius Borg Høiby, 27, was detained by police in Oslo on Monday evening after an alleged sexual assault incident in August.
According to a police statement, Høiby is suspected of violating the criminal code by engaging in “sexual intercourse with someone who is unconscious or for other reasons unable to resist the act”. The alleged victim, with whom Høiby was reportedly in a relationship, is said to have been unable to resist the sexual act.
August Incident and Prior Arrests
The arrest stems from an incident on August 4th at a woman’s apartment in Oslo. Police were called to the scene and found a knife stuck in one of the bedroom walls. Høiby was detained at the time, accused of causing bodily harm to the resident.
In September, Høiby was arrested again for allegedly violating a restraining order related to the August incident. Now, he faces more serious charges of rape and domestic abuse.
Domestic Abuse Allegations
Police have indicated that the suspicions against Høiby also include domestic abuse related to the August incident. When he was arrested on Monday, Høiby was reportedly in a car with the alleged victim from that prior altercation.
What police can say about the rape is that it concerns a sexual act without intercourse. The victim is said to have been unable to resist the act.
Oslo Police Statement
A Royal Upbringing
Marius Borg Høiby is the eldest child of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, born from a relationship prior to her 2001 marriage to Crown Prince Haakon, the heir apparent to the Norwegian throne. Despite his royal connections, Høiby holds no official public role, unlike his younger half-siblings.
Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 20, and Prince Sverre Magnus, 18, were raised together with Høiby by Mette-Marit and Haakon. The royal family has not yet commented on the arrest or allegations against Høiby.
Awaiting Further Legal Action
Police have stated that they have yet to decide whether Høiby will be remanded in custody as the investigation continues. If convicted of rape, he could face a lengthy prison sentence under Norway’s strict sexual assault laws.
This shocking case has sent shockwaves through Norway and beyond, as the son of a beloved royal faces grave criminal accusations. As more details emerge, the world will be watching to see how the Norwegian justice system handles this high-profile case involving a member of the royal family.
For now, Marius Borg Høiby remains under arrest as police build their case. The royal family, and indeed the entire nation, are undoubtedly grappling with the implications of these serious allegations against Princess Mette-Marit’s eldest child. Only time will tell what the future holds for this troubled young man and those affected by his alleged actions.
