Khaberni - The Norwegian authorities arrested Marius Borg Hoiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, late on Sunday, two days before his trial on rape-related charges, according to his lawyer to the Norwegian news agency "NTB".
It is noted that Hoiby, "29 years old," is accused of 38 charges including rape, domestic violence, and assault. His trial is scheduled to begin in Oslo tomorrow, Tuesday.
It is noted that Hoiby is the son of Mette-Marit from a previous relationship before she married Crown Prince Haakon. He does not hold any royal title and is not an official member of the Norwegian royal court.
In the summer of 2024, Hoiby admitted he had been violent towards his then-girlfriend, while under the influence of alcohol and cocaine, and that he broke things in her apartment.
However, he strongly denies the rape allegations, as one of his lawyers later stated.
The trial is scheduled to continue until mid-March.
After the reading of the indictment and opening statements on the first day of the trial, Hoiby will respond to these allegations on the second day.
The testimonies of several alleged victims and witnesses, including the defendant's former girlfriends, will also be heard.
Strict rules regarding publishing and media coverage related to these women have been set, as many of the statements will be heard behind closed doors, amid huge media interest in the case.
