Norwegian Royal's Son Denies Rape Videos in Emotional Court Testimony
The eldest son of Norway's crown princess has delivered an emotional denial during his first day on the witness stand, breaking down in tears as he refuted allegations that videos on his mobile phone depict acts of rape. Marius Borg Hoiby, the 29-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and stepson to Crown Prince Haakon, faces 38 charges including serious counts of rape and domestic violence that could result in up to a decade behind bars if he is convicted.
Courtroom Breakdown and Royal Upbringing
During Wednesday's proceedings, Hoiby became visibly distressed while addressing the court, stating "It is very difficult for me to speak in front of so many people." He revealed that he has been surrounded by media attention since the age of three and has endured persistent harassment throughout his life. The defendant appeared in casual attire of jeans with a dark blue jumper over a beige shirt, occasionally consulting handwritten notes as he spoke with his arms crossed throughout his testimony.
Hoiby provided insight into his unconventional upbringing as the child of a crown princess, explaining that this background created what he described as "an extreme need for affirmation." He detailed a lifestyle characterised by excessive partying, substantial alcohol consumption, and some drug use, noting that few people could truly understand the pressures of his royal-adjacent existence.
Denial of Video Evidence and Legal Strategy
Some of the most severe allegations against Hoiby involve one count of rape with sexual intercourse and three counts of rape without intercourse, with prosecutors asserting that he recorded some of these incidents on his telephone. The defendant firmly rejected this characterisation of the video content, insisting that the footage does not show assaults and emphasising that he never shared the material with anyone.
"If I had thought I had material that showed an assault, I would never have kept that material," Hoiby told the court. His legal approach has involved a mixed plea strategy permitted under Norwegian law, with the defendant entering not guilty pleas for the most serious rape and domestic violence charges while admitting to some lesser offences including excessive speeding. He has also entered a partial guilty plea for aggravated assault and reckless behaviour charges.
Broader Implications for Norwegian Monarchy
This high-profile trial arrives during a particularly challenging period for the Norwegian royal family, which has traditionally maintained strong public support. Recent opinion polling conducted for the Verdens Gang newspaper reveals that only 61% of Norwegians now favour maintaining the monarchy, representing a significant 11% decline in support. The royal household faces additional scrutiny due to Crown Princess Mette-Marit's controversial connections with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Neither Crown Prince Haakon nor Crown Princess Mette-Marit plan to attend the court proceedings involving Hoiby, who occupies a position outside the direct line of royal succession and holds no official title. The trial is scheduled to continue through 19th March, with prosecutors indicating that a conviction on the most serious charges could result in a prison sentence of up to ten years. This case represents one of the most significant legal challenges involving European royalty in recent memory, with potential ramifications for public perception of Norway's constitutional monarchy.
