Marius Borg Hoiby, the eldest son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, received a four-year prison sentence. He was convicted on two charges of rape and 32 other offenses.
The court found him guilty of two out of four rape charges, acquitted of the remaining two. Convictions also included assault and abuse in close relationships.
In addition to serving time, Hoiby must compensate the victims. His crimes involved sexually assaulting four incapacitated women from 2018 to 2024.
Hoiby faced 40 charges, encompassing lesser crimes such as assault, drug offenses, and restraining order violations. He denied rape allegations but admitted to other offenses.
Prosecutors sought a sentence of seven years and seven months. Defense lawyers promoted acquittal and an 18-month sentence for admitted charges.
The sentence is appealable. Defense lawyer Ellen Holager Andenaes stated considering appeals for serious convictions was expected.
The verdict, a significant event, was described by prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo as evidence that the law applies to everyone.
Due to health issues, Hoiby wasn’t present at court, attending via video link from prison. The trial lasted six weeks, ending in March, incorporating evidence from Hoiby’s cellphone and accusers’ testimonies.
International interest surged due to Hoiby’s royal ties, causing distress in the family.
Hoiby is son of Mette-Marit, preceding her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon of Norway. Raised by the royal couple, he holds no official royal title.
Mette-Marit’s health declined during the case. The crown princess, battling pulmonary fibrosis and awaiting lung transplant, was central to debates over Hoiby’s temporary release.
Courts decided against his release during trial pending judgment.
The case prompted review of royal family actions amid Mette-Marit’s past interactions with Jeffrey Epstein, the deceased sex offender. She has apologized for such connections but faces no allegations of misconduct.