Norwegian Royal’s Son Sentenced to Prison

Marius Borg Hoiby, the eldest son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, received a four-year prison sentence on charges including rape and other offenses. Hoiby faced two rape convictions out of four charges, and was acquitted of the rest. He also committed assault and abuse in close relationships. In addition, he was ordered to compensate the victims.

Hoiby faced 40 charges, involving four women from 2018 to 2024 who were unable to resist. He acknowledged some lesser charges, such as assault, drug-related offenses, and restraining order violations. Prosecutors aimed for seven years and seven months, but defense lawyers sought acquittal of rape charges and up to 18 months for admitted offenses. Hoiby can appeal the sentence.

Ellen Holager Andenaes, his defense lawyer, stated, “It is only natural to consider appealing the serious charges for which he was convicted and which he did not admit.”

Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo called it “a victory for our justice system” and highlighted equality under the law. Hoiby didn’t attend court due to health issues and watched via a prison video link. The trial ended in March, after testimonies and evidence, including messages and videos from Hoiby’s phone. This case drew international attention due to Hoiby’s royal ties, but he holds no public role or title.

Hoiby is Mette-Marit’s child from before her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon. His step-siblings have royal titles, unlike him. Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s health worsened during the trial’s duration; she has pulmonary fibrosis and seeks a lung transplant. Legal debates arose regarding Hoiby’s temporary release before the verdict, but appeals courts insisted on continued detention.

This trial happened amidst renewed examination of the royal family, linked to Mette-Marit’s past interactions with Jeffrey Epstein. She has publicly regretted the connection, citing poor judgment, though no wrongdoing is claimed against her.