Trial against Marius Borg Høiby: Verdict to be delivered on Monday via video from custody

Høiby had only recently filed a request to have his pretrial detention lifted in order to be with his seriously ill mother. A court of appeal, however, rejected this request. As reported by Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, the judges justified their decision by stating that there remained a high probability that Høiby would commit new offenses if released.

Rejection of the Request for Release from Custody

As a central factor, the judges also cited an existing restraining order against an ex-girlfriend, which Høiby had already violated several times in the past. They regarded these violations as evidence that he continued to pose a danger.

In total, Høiby is accused on 40 charges. Among other things, he is alleged to have raped four women in their sleep under Norwegian law. The prosecution is seeking a prison sentence of seven years and seven months.

Family Burdened by Crown Princess's Illness

The verdict is scheduled for Monday morning. Should Høiby be convicted, this would be one of the most sensational criminal trials in Norway's recent legal history – not least because of the family's proximity to the royal house.

The indictment encompasses a broad spectrum of charges, including, in addition to the rape allegations, assault and other violent offenses. Høiby has not publicly commented on the charges to date; his defense announced that they would appeal in the event of a conviction.

With Monday's announcement, a trial concludes that has preoccupied the Norwegian public for months. The case throws a spotlight on the handling of domestic and sexual violence in Norway and on the role of the couple, who have so far not publicly commented on the allegations.

In recent years, Mette-Marit has had to limit her royal duties several times because of her illness. The news of the transplant waiting list triggered great dismay in Norway. Whether she will be present in the courtroom on the day of the verdict is not known.

Legal experts point out that the length of the sentence sought – over seven and a half years – reflects the severity of the charges. Should the court follow the prosecution's request, this would have immediate consequences for the family's status within the royal house.