Royal ‘Rapist’: Marius Borg Høiby Faces Rape and Violence Charges
Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and stepson to Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, has been charged with four counts of rape amid a broader investigation that has shaken the Norwegian royal family. The case, which has dominated headlines across Europe, involves a total of 32 charges ranging from sexual assault to bodily harm, painting a disturbing picture of alleged violence, abuse, and reckless behavior.
The Charges and Court Proceedings
On Monday, after more than a year-long investigation, Høiby appeared in court to face his indictment. Prosecutors allege that the disgraced royal committed one rape involving intercourse, two rapes without intercourse, four cases of sexual assault, and two of bodily harm. In each incident, Høiby allegedly targeted women while they were asleep or unconscious.
Among the most shocking claims is that he raped Norwegian TV star Linni Meister, 39, in 2018 during one of his notorious “Skaugum Festival” parties. These gatherings reportedly took place in the basement of the royal estate, where Crown Prince Haakon himself resided upstairs, unaware of the alleged crimes taking place below.
The indictment also includes accusations of abuse against his ex-partner, former Miss Norway Nora Haukland, and violence against another girlfriend. State Attorney Sturla Henriksbø told reporters, “This case is very serious. Rape and violence in close relationships are very serious acts that can leave lasting traces and destroy lives.”
If convicted, Høiby could face up to ten years in prison following his trial, which is scheduled to last six weeks in January.
A Pattern of Arrests and Allegations
Høiby’s legal troubles began on August 4 when he was arrested over an alleged assault that hospitalized his then-girlfriend Rebecca Helberg Arntsen. However, her legal team later disputed the claim that they were in a relationship.
In the months that followed, Høiby was arrested multiple times—once for violating a restraining order and later for fresh rape charges. At one point, authorities banned him from receiving visitors or correspondence in custody due to fears he might tamper with evidence.
Police have reportedly gathered extensive evidence, including text messages, witness testimony, and digital files. A video allegedly circulating among Høiby’s friends shows him making slapping gestures while describing how he ended a relationship, further fueling suspicions of violent tendencies.
Public Statements and Defense
Through his lawyer, Petar Sekulic, Høiby has denied wrongdoing in most of the cases, particularly those involving sexual assault. In an earlier statement following his August arrest, he admitted to struggling with mental health issues and substance abuse, saying:
“I have several mental disorders which mean that throughout my upbringing and adult life, I have had, and still have, challenges. I have struggled with substance abuse for a long time, something I have been in treatment for in the past. The drug use and my diagnoses do not excuse what happened … I want to be responsible for what I have done, and will explain myself truthfully to the police.”
While acknowledging some violent behavior during intoxication, Høiby continues to dispute the rape allegations.
Life as a Royal Outsider
Unlike his younger half-siblings Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 21, and Prince Sverre Magnus, 19, Høiby holds no official royal role. Born before his mother’s marriage into the royal family in 2001, he grew up in close proximity to Norway’s future monarchs but has often been portrayed in the media as an outsider prone to controversy.
In recent years, Høiby has lived near the royal estate but largely outside the royal spotlight. However, his name has become synonymous with scandal, from wild parties to publicized run-ins with police.
Reaction and Fallout
The Norwegian public and press have responded with shock to the sheer scale of allegations. For a royal family typically seen as low-profile and scandal-free, the case marks a serious reputational crisis.
Media reports suggest that Høiby has spent time in rehab clinics in London and was later spotted in Copenhagen, disguised with dyed hair and a hoodie to avoid press attention. Still, the cloud of allegations has not lifted.
With his trial looming, the focus remains on how the Norwegian legal system will handle the case. A conviction could permanently tarnish not only Høiby’s life but also the public image of a royal family long viewed as dignified and scandal-resistant.
Conclusion
Marius Borg Høiby’s case represents one of the most explosive scandals ever linked to the Norwegian royal household. Facing 32 charges, including four counts of rape, the 28-year-old stands accused of a pattern of violent and abusive behavior that has left alleged victims traumatized and the monarchy under intense scrutiny.
If convicted, Høiby could spend the next decade in prison. If acquitted, questions will remain about his troubled past, his admitted struggles with mental health and addiction, and the shadow these allegations will cast over Norway’s monarchy for years to come.
THE SUN
