The eldest son of Norway Crown Princess Mette-Marit has been arrested amid new criminal allegations, just days ahead of a major court trial in Oslo involving charges that include rape.
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Police confirmed that Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, was detained on Sunday on suspicion of causing bodily harm, threatening with a knife and violating a restraining order. Following the arrest, authorities said they would ask a judge to approve his continued detention for up to four weeks.
Hoiby, the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, was already free on bail while awaiting trial on a wide range of serious charges. Prosecutors have previously accused him of four counts of rape, domestic violence, assault, drug possession and other offences. The latest allegations could further expand the case against him, which already includes 38 criminal counts.
The eldest son of Norway’s crown princess has been arrested, just before his trial opens on charges including rape in a case that has been an embarrassment to the royal family. https://t.co/Z8LA9s9BIZ
— CBS News (@CBSNews) February 2, 2026
Those charges involve rape, abuse in a close relationship against a former partner, violent acts against another individual, transporting 3.5 kilograms of cannabis, making death threats and multiple traffic violations. Hoiby is scheduled to appear before an Oslo court today, with proceedings expected to run until 19 March.
His lawyer declined to comment on the latest accusations. While Hoiby denies criminal responsibility for the rape and domestic violence charges, he has admitted to some lesser offences and previously indicated he intends to provide a detailed explanation in court.
Hoiby has faced public scrutiny since 2024, when police identified him as a suspect in a physical assault case involving a former partner. At the time, he acknowledged causing bodily harm while under the influence of cocaine and alcohol and admitted to damaging her apartment, expressing regret for his actions.
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Hoiby is not a member of Norway’s royal succession line and holds no royal title. Last week, Crown Prince Haakon said the royal household would refrain from commenting while legal proceedings are ongoing.
The trial opens amid renewed attention on Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s past contacts with Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of new documents in the United States.