Marius Borg Hoiby, Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s eldest son, received a four-year prison sentence after a conviction for two counts of rape alongside other offenses. The verdict was announced by Oslo District Court, where Hoiby was found guilty in two out of four rape allegations. He also faced charges for assault and abuse in domestic settings. Additionally, Hoiby must compensate the victims.
The 29-year-old was charged with sexual assaults on four women who were asleep or incapable of resistance between 2018 and 2024. His legal troubles encompassed 40 charges, including assault and drug-related violations. Hoiby denied the rapes but acknowledged several minor offenses.
Prosecutors initially sought a sentence of seven years and seven months. Meanwhile, his defense argued for acquittal on the rape charges, suggesting no more than 18 months for admitted offenses. Hoiby retains the right to appeal the decision. Defense lawyer Ellen Holager Andenaes indicated an appeal is likely, challenging serious charges denied by him.
“It is only natural to consider appealing the serious charges for which he was convicted and which he did not admit,” Andenaes stated.
Though absent due to health issues, Hoiby observed the verdict remotely from prison. The case, drawing significant international interest, concluded after a six-week trial involving testimonies from several accusers and evidence sourced from Hoiby’s phone.
Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo hailed the ruling as a triumph for justice, emphasizing accountability regardless of royal connections. Hoiby’s ties to the royal family amplified media focus, although he lacks an official royal title unlike his step-siblings.
The case’s notoriety also affected Crown Princess Mette-Marit, exacerbating her health as she awaits a lung transplant. Courts rejected temporary release for Hoiby amid ongoing legal proceedings.
Further complicating the royal family’s predicament were past associations between Mette-Marit and Jeffrey Epstein. Though she expressed regret for continued interactions, she faces no accusations of misconduct related to Epstein.