Norwegian Crown Prince’s Stepson Convicted of Rape

Marius Borg Høiby, the stepson of Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon, has been found guilty of two counts of rape, one count of domestic violence and several other offenses. A Norwegian court sentenced the 29-year-old to four years in prison.

Høiby was acquitted on two additional rape charges.

He became part of Norway’s royal family in 2001 when his mother, Mette-Marit, married Crown Prince Haakon.

During the trial, Høiby denied the most serious allegations, including rape, and maintained his innocence. He did, however, admit to some of the lesser charges. His lawyers have indicated that he may appeal the verdict.

Prosecutors had sought a prison sentence of seven years and seven months.

The seven-week trial was among the most closely watched court cases in Norway in recent years. Proceedings included testimony about Høiby’s drug addiction, video recordings of sexual encounters and more than 800 electronic messages.

According to testimony presented during the trial, one of the incidents took place in the basement of the crown prince’s family residence.

(reuters, max)