An Oslo district court has sentenced Marius Borg Hoiby, the stepson of Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon, to four years in prison after finding him guilty of rape, domestic violence, and drug-related offences.
Hoiby, 29, became connected to Norway’s royal family when his mother, Mette-Marit, married Haakon in 2001.
The court convicted Hoiby on two counts of rape, as well as charges linked to domestic abuse against his former partner, Nora Haukland, and narcotics offences. Judges acquitted him on two other rape charges, ruling that there was insufficient evidence to prove the encounters were non-consensual.
According to court findings, one of the rape incidents occurred in the basement of Skaugum, the official residence of the Norwegian crown prince.
Although Hoiby denied the rape accusations, he admitted to domestic abuse and to transporting 3.5 kilograms of marijuana in 2020.
The high-profile trial lasted seven weeks and attracted widespread attention across Norway. Proceedings revealed details of Hoiby’s struggles with drug addiction, as well as evidence that included self-recorded videos and more than 800 electronic messages.
Hoiby has been in custody since February 1. He did not attend the verdict hearing in person, citing medical reasons, and reportedly followed the proceedings through a secure video link from Oslo Prison.
During the trial, Hoiby spoke about growing up close to the royal family while holding no official royal title. He said he had long struggled with a desire for recognition, which contributed to problems involving drugs, alcohol, and relationships.
Following the verdict, Crown Prince Haakon reiterated that Hoiby is not a member of Norway’s Royal House and should be treated like any other citizen under the law.
The case has drawn significant public attention and has further affected the image of Norway’s royal family, which has faced increased scrutiny since the allegations first emerged.

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