Marius Borg Høiby Arrested Again on Rape Charges
Marius Borg Høiby, the 27-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway, has been arrested once again, this time on serious allegations of rape. The arrest occurred on November 18, 2024, when police apprehended him near Skaugum Manor, the royal family's residence. According to police reports, Høiby is suspected of violating Section 291 of the Norwegian Penal Code, which pertains to sexual intercourse with a person who is unconscious or otherwise unable to resist.
The latest charges come as part of an ongoing investigation that began in August 2024, following a violent incident involving Høiby and a woman identified as his ex-girlfriend. Initially arrested for assault and damage to property, the case has now expanded to include multiple allegations from various victims, including four women and one man. His defense attorney, Øyvind Bratlien, stated that Høiby pleads not guilty to the expanded charges and is cooperating with the police.
Background of Previous Allegations
Høiby has a troubled history, having previously been arrested in August 2024 after an incident at his ex-girlfriend's apartment. During that arrest, he admitted to causing bodily harm and acknowledged his struggles with alcohol and drug addiction. Reports indicate that he was under the influence of cocaine, ecstasy, and cannabis at the time of the August incident. His ex-girlfriends, Juliane Snekkestad and Nora Haukland, have also accused him of physical and psychological abuse, further complicating his legal situation.
Crown Prince Haakon, who was in Jamaica at the time of Høiby's latest arrest, has described the situation as “difficult” and “serious,” while Crown Princess Mette-Marit has requested understanding regarding her limited public comments on the matter. The royal family has remained largely silent on the specifics of the case, leaving the public and media to speculate on the implications for their reputation.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
As of now, Marius Borg Høiby is being held in custody at Grønland detention center in Oslo. The police have yet to decide whether he will be brought before a judge for a preventive detention hearing. The ongoing investigation has raised concerns about the impact of these allegations on the Norwegian royal family, particularly as Høiby has no official royal duties but has maintained a relationship with the royal household.
The situation continues to develop, and it remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will unfold and what consequences Høiby may face if convicted. The public and media attention surrounding this case reflects broader societal issues regarding accountability and the treatment of allegations of sexual violence.
