Khaberni - The trial of the son of the Crown Princess of Norway began today, Tuesday, with multiple charges including rape in a case that has shaken the image of the royal family.
The accused, Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, is the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship, and the son of Crown Prince Haakon's wife; he does not hold any royal title and is not required to perform any official duties.
Hoiby, who has been under investigation since being repeatedly arrested in 2024 on various charges, appeared in an Oslo district court this morning, Tuesday, to attend the trial, which is scheduled to continue until March 19 next year.
Hoiby faces a charge sheet that includes 38 charges, among them rape, mistreatment in a relationship against a former partner, acts of violence against another person, and transporting 3.5 kilograms of marijuana. The other charges include making death threats and traffic violations.
Prosecutors reported that Hoiby could face a prison sentence of up to 10 years if convicted. Seven of the alleged victims are expected to testify.
The defense team stated that he "denies all sexual assault charges, as well as most of the charges related to violence."
