Marius Borg Hoiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, is set to go on trial in February 2025 on serious charges, including the rape of four women. An Oslo court announced the trial dates on Tuesday, revealing that proceedings will run from February 3 to March 13. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of up to ten years.
Hoiby, who is 28 years old, was charged on August 18, 2024, with a total of four counts of rape and an additional 28 crimes, which include acts of violence against former girlfriends. This case marks one of the most significant scandals to impact the Norwegian royal family in recent history.
The allegations involve seven women, four of whom are claiming they were raped. Notable among the accusers are Nora Haukland, a former girlfriend of Hoiby, and Linni Meister, a model and pop singer. The charges assert that the incidents took place over several years, spanning 2018, 2023, and 2024, with the most recent assault allegedly occurring after police began their investigation.
Hoiby was arrested on August 4, 2024, after being suspected of assaulting a woman. His legal representatives have stated that he admits to acts of violence related to that specific incident but denies all other charges. In a public statement made shortly after his arrest, he acknowledged having acted “under the influence of alcohol and cocaine following an argument.” He also indicated that he has battled “mental troubles” and substance abuse issues for an extended period.
Crown Prince Haakon, Hoiby’s stepfather, addressed the situation publicly on August 19, 2024, expressing concern for all involved. “Everyone involved in this case undoubtedly finds this all very difficult and trying,” he said. “It is now up to the courts to decide on the final outcome.”
Notably, Hoiby is not an official member of the royal family and does not hold any public role. The Crown Prince and Crown Princess Mette-Marit have two children together, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, who are 21 and 19 years old, respectively.
As the trial approaches, the royal family has not been called to testify, reflecting the sensitive nature of the allegations and the significant public interest surrounding the proceedings. The outcome of this trial could potentially reshape perceptions of the Norwegian royal family amidst a backdrop of serious allegations.
