by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Europe Bureau Chief
OSLO (Worthy News) – Norway’s royal family faced renewed turmoil Tuesday after the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit was detained by police on suspicion of assault just days before his trial in Oslo on 38 charges, including the rape of four women, while the crown princess herself faces questions over past contact with late U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Police said Marius Borg Høiby, 29, was arrested Sunday evening on suspicion of bodily harm, making threats with a knife, and violating a restraining order.
Authorities requested four weeks of custody, citing a risk of reoffending, and an Oslo court approved the remand.
Høiby has denied the most serious accusations but has admitted to some lesser offences, according to reports. His trial is expected to last about seven weeks.
The case has intensified public scrutiny of the monarchy at a time when Crown Princess Mette-Marit is also under pressure over revelations that she corresponded with Epstein between 2011 and 2014.
PRIME MINISTER: ‘POOR JUDGEMENT’
In a statement, Mette-Marit acknowledged “poor judgment,” saying, “I deeply regret having had any contact with Epstein. It is simply embarrassing,” while expressing sympathy for his victims.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said he agreed with her admission of poor judgment, an unusually direct comment on royal affairs.
Norwegian media have raised questions about the role of advisers and the use of an official royal email account in the correspondence.
The palace has stressed that Høiby is a private citizen, though critics note the scandal still reflects on the royal household.
Yet these developments appear as Norway’s monarchy faces growing debate over its future amid heightened public attention.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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