Arrest of Norwegian Princess's Son Sparks Controversy and Media Attention

The son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Marius Borg Høiby, has been arrested on suspicion of rape, with accusations extending to multiple victims and prior charges of violence.

Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit, was arrested late Monday night by police in Oslo under suspicion of rape. The 27-year-old, who is the stepson of the heir to the Norwegian throne, Crown Prince Haakon, does not hold a royal title and does not assume official royal duties.

Norwegian police confirmed that Mr. Høiby faces serious allegations regarding a sexual act involving a victim who was unable to resist. He has reportedly denied the accusations. Additionally, the police have indicated that charges now extend to include various offences allegedly committed against four other victims.

In their statements, law enforcement specified that one allegation "concerns a sexual act without intercourse" and detailed that the victim involved was unable to resist the act. The Norwegian royal palace has refrained from commenting on this ongoing legal matter.

Mr. Høiby was detained at 23:12 local time in a vehicle alongside another victim linked to a different incident. This previous incident, dating back to August 4, has also led to accusations of violence, criminal damage, and breaches of restraining orders against the same individual. Additionally, investigators reported that a complaint was filed concerning Mr. Høiby driving without a valid license.

Further complicating his legal troubles, the police executed a search of Mr. Høiby's residence at Skaugum, in proximity to the home of Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit. He has faced prior allegations of abuse involving ex-girlfriends, Julianne Snekkestad and Nora Haukland, as well as a reported threat made against another individual.

The unfolding situation has led to significant media scrutiny in Norway as Mr. Høiby navigates these serious legal challenges.