A case that has caused strong shockwaves in Norway and brought the royal family into the spotlight is entering a critical stage. Marius Borg Hoiby, son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, is facing one of the most serious legal proceedings of recent years, as the prosecution has proposed a prison sentence of seven years and seven months.

The trial, unfolding in Oslo, is attracting significant interest both socially and politically, as the case involves a person connected to the monarchy, while the charges are considered particularly serious.

A total of 40 charges have been brought against the 29-year-old, including four counts of rape, according to Norwegian law. Particular emphasis has been placed by the prosecution on incidents that allegedly occurred while the victims were asleep, which, if confirmed, significantly worsens the defendant’s position. At the same time, in some cases there are claims that the acts were recorded, further increasing the gravity of the case.

The hearing began in early February and continues with delays due to health issues affecting the judge. Despite the progress of the trial, a verdict is not expected soon, with estimates suggesting it may take several months.

During his address at the Oslo court, prosecutor Sturla Henriksen adopted a particularly strict tone, describing the defendant as a person who “takes whatever he wants,” highlighting a lack of respect for both social norms and women.

Although he clarified that the court’s judgment must be based on actions rather than personality, he outlined a profile which, according to the prosecution, shows systematic violations of boundaries and consent.

The statement came in response to the testimony of Marius Borg Høiby himself, who described himself as a “monster” and “an object of hatred for all of Norway,” speaking of intense psychological pressure, isolation, and depression.

The prosecutor countered that “no one is a monster,” while insisting that the evidence presented reflects repeated behavior that ignores consent.

The case has sparked intense debate in Norway, as it involves a person linked to the royal family, raising issues of equality before the law and the independence of the justice system. At the same time, it has opened a broader discussion on gender-based violence, consent, and social responsibility.

Princess Mette-Marit’s health deteriorates

It is noted that Princess Mette-Marit of Norway’s health has worsened again, as confirmed today by her representative to the German News Agency (dpa). Due to this development, the 52-year-old princess is not expected to appear in public next week when the Belgian royal couple visits Norway.

Princess Mette-Marit suffers from pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic disease in which the lungs develop scarring over time, causing, among other things, breathing problems.

In December, the Norwegian royal palace had announced that Mette-Marit would need to undergo a lung transplant due to the worsening of her condition.

The wife of Crown Prince Haakon is also facing pressure after it was revealed that she had maintained contacts with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, while the high-profile trial of her eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby—who is accused of rape—is ongoing.