The son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Marius Borg Høiby, has been arrested on suspicion of assault just days before he is set to go on trial facing 38 charges, including the alleged rape of four women.
Recently taken into custody, the 29-year-old was remanded for four weeks as the police voiced concerns regarding his behavior, indicating that he allegedly wielded a knife and breached a restraining order, suggesting a risk of reoffending.
This latest arrest marks Høiby's fourth encounter with law enforcement since August 2024, when he was implicated in the assault of a former partner. While he has denied the most severe accusations, he has accepted responsibility for lesser charges.
These incidents add to the royal family's recent challenges as Mette-Marit faces scrutiny over her prior communication with Jeffrey Epstein, which she later described as poor judgment. She expressed her solidarity with Epstein's victims and admitted her connection to him was embarrassing.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre commented on Mette-Marit's situation, noting her acknowledgment of 'poor judgement,' which has drawn notable public attention to the royal family's dynamics. Historians and commentators have questioned the roles of her advisers during her prolonged communication with Epstein.
Despite not being a royal himself, Høiby is the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon. The charges against him not only include serious allegations of sexual assault but also drug offenses and violating the law, adding a complicated chapter to both his life and that of the Norwegian monarchy.
The Oslo District Court has responded to the police's concerns by agreeing to the remand request, emphasizing the need to prevent further offenses ahead of the upcoming trial. The royal household has attempted to separate itself from the unfolding legal situations while expressing sympathy towards the alleged victims involved.
