Marius Borg Høiby Arrested Before Trial
Marius Borg Høiby, 29, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of assault. This marks the fourth time he has been detained by police in the past 18 months. Authorities say the new allegations involve wielding a knife and violating a restraining order.
The Oslo District Court remanded him in custody for four weeks, citing a risk of reoffending. He faces 38 charges in total, including rape, abuse, restraining order violations, marijuana possession, and speeding.
History of Arrests and Allegations
He has denied the most serious charges but admitted to some minor ones. Police initially allowed him brief custody periods, but the extended remand at the start of his trial marks a significant change in approach.
Høiby has also spoken about struggling with several mental disorders and substance abuse, which may have contributed to his previous offenses.
Impact on the Royal Family
Although Marius is not officially part of the royal family, he is Crown Prince Haakon’s stepson. The trial has sparked public scrutiny of the royal household. Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s previous connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein from 2011 to 2014 have also resurfaced, adding to public concern.
Mette-Marit admitted to showing “poor judgement” and expressed sympathy for Epstein’s victims. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre acknowledged her admission but issued implicit criticism, noting the unusual nature of her contact with Epstein.
Historian Ole-Jørgen Schulsrud-Hansen highlighted questions about the royal advisers’ role, stating, “Where are the counsellors, the royal court, and the foreign office?”
Royal Household Responds
The royal family has tried to distance itself from the trial. Crown Prince Haakon publicly expressed sympathy to the women involved and their families, calling it “a difficult time for many of you.” Meanwhile, the princess continues her duties as a public figure and patron of several organizations, despite facing personal health challenges, including pulmonary fibrosis.
