In a troubling turn of events for Norway’s royal family, Marius Borg Hoiby, the 27-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been detained on serious charges including rape.
Details of the Allegations
The allegations surfaced after police detained Hoiby on 18 November 2024. He is suspected of having sexual encounters with two women who were either unconscious or incapacitated, which has been classified as a sexual act without intercourse. According to a police spokesperson, these cases are particularly alarming.
- Rape charges: Involve acts where the victim could not resist.
- Prior accusations: These include charges of bodily harm against a former partner, where a knife was found during the investigation.
- History of violence: Hoiby has faced accusations of physical abuse and drug use.
Judicial Proceedings
The courts have decided to hold Hoiby in preventive detention for up to one week while investigations continue. His lawyer, Oeyvind Bratlien, maintains that Hoiby is innocent and opposed to the detention terms. Despite being a member of the royal family, Hoiby does not hold a royal title nor is he in line for the throne — this decision may impact perceptions of the monarchy.
Statements from the Family
Crown Prince Haakon expressed that the family is deeply affected by these serious allegations, saying, “We are of course thinking of all those affected.” His remarks reflect the gravity of the situation as it resonates with broader societal issues of domestic violence in Norway.
Contextual Concerns
This incident has highlighted a troubling reality in Norway, a country celebrated for its gender equality. Recent studies indicate that one in ten women report having faced severe harm at the hands of a partner. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere acknowledged that such challenges are common and stated that public support for the monarchy remains strong despite these revelations.
As the investigation unfolds, further developments are awaited, but this incident raises questions about the implications for both Hoiby and the royal family.