Norway’s Royal Scandal: Crown Princess’s Son Faces 32 Criminal Charges

The Norwegian Royal Palace marked Crown Princess Mette‑Marit’s 52nd birthday with a public statement and official photograph, even as her eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby, faces a barrage of criminal charges.

Høiby, 28, has been formally indicted on 32 offences, including four counts of rape and allegations involving former partners. The charges also include violations of restraining orders, prompting heightened media attention both in Norway and internationally.

The Crown Princess, wife of Crown Prince Haakon, heir to the Norwegian throne, received birthday wishes from the Palace alongside a photograph taken by royal photographer Carina Johansen, shared on the Royal Family’s Instagram account. The post read: “Happy birthday to Crown Princess Mette‑Marit, who celebrates her birthday today!”

Høiby, born from a previous relationship before Mette-Marit’s marriage to Haakon, has publicly denied the most serious allegations. His legal counsel, Petar Sekulic, told Reuters that while Høiby plans to contest the gravest charges, he may plead guilty to lesser offences. If convicted on the top counts, he could face up to a decade in prison.

The juxtaposition of the Crown Princess’s birthday celebrations with the legal proceedings surrounding her son has fueled intense public and media scrutiny. Observers note the delicate balancing act for the Palace, which seeks to honor tradition and family milestones while addressing a highly sensitive and serious criminal matter.