The rape trial of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son has begun, placing the royal family under intense public scrutiny as prosecutors lay out serious charges and the defence rejects the allegations, raising broader questions about accountability and privilege
A high-profile rape trial involving the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit began on Tuesday, drawing intense public attention as the royal family faces renewed scrutiny tied to past contacts with late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, the eldest son of Princess
Mette-Marit from a previous relationship and the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, is charged with many offences including rape.
Court proceedings underway
As the proceedings got underway, prosecutors outlined that Hoiby faces 38 charges spanning alleged sexual assaults, acts of violence and other serious offences. The charges date back several years and involve multiple alleged victims. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.
Hoiby’s defence team said he “denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence.” The statement was delivered outside the Oslo district court, where judges agreed to keep him in custody for up to four weeks due to concerns about flight risk and public safety.
The royal household has taken an unusual stance by choosing not to attend the proceedings, with officials stating the immediate focus should be on the legal process rather than on public spectacle. King Harald, 88, and other senior royals are remaining silent on the matter publicly.
Legal experts say the trial could have long-term implications for how high-profile individuals are treated under the law in Norway.
Hoiby’s trial is beginning at a moment when Crown Princess Mette-Marit is again under the spotlight over her past interactions with Jeffrey Epstein, after a fresh set of Epstein-related documents released on Friday included hundreds of references to her. Norwegian media noted that she had previously said in 2019 that she regretted having had contact with Epstein.
Mette-Marit said in a statement that she “must take responsibility for not having investigated Epstein’s background more thoroughly, and for not realising sooner what kind of person he was.” She added: “I showed poor judgement and regret having had any contact with Epstein at all. It is simply embarrassing.”
End of Article
Expansion alloy applications are explained in a very practical way.
I’m often to blogging and i really appreciate your content. The article has actually peaks my interest. I’m going to bookmark your web site and maintain checking for brand spanking new information.