Son of Norway's Crown Princess Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Rape
Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been sentenced to four years in prison for two counts of rape and 32 other offenses, in a case that has shaken the monarchy.
An Oslo court on Monday sentenced Marius Borg Hoiby, the 29-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship, to four years in prison for two counts of rape and 32 other offenses. He faced 40 charges, including domestic abuse, traffic violations, threats, and drug offenses, with a maximum possible sentence of 16 years. One rape occurred at the official residence of the crown prince couple in 2018. He was acquitted of two other rape charges.
Prosecutors had requested a seven-year, seven-month sentence, while Hoiby's lawyers argued for 18 months for charges he admitted. Hoiby, in custody since February, followed the verdict via video link. One of the victims collapsed in tears in the courtroom. Defense lawyer Ellen Holager Andenaes indicated an appeal is being considered. Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo called the sentence "lengthy and strict" and appropriate for the crimes.
The rapes occurred between 2018 and 2024 after nights of heavy partying involving alcohol and drugs. Hoiby testified that he sought recognition through sex, drugs, and alcohol. The scandal began in August 2024 when he was arrested for assaulting his then-girlfriend. Police discovered videos on his devices showing rapes; the victims were unaware of the recordings and had not filed complaints.
The case has embarrassed the Norwegian monarchy and contributed to a decline in public support, though it remains broadly popular. It follows earlier revelations about Mette-Marit's friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The crown princess herself suffers from an incurable lung disease and is on a waiting list for a lung transplant.
