Norwegian prosecutors have indicted Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, on 32 criminal counts that include the rape of four women, domestic violence, assault and secretly filming victims. The charges, announced on 18 August after a year-long investigation, relate to incidents in 2018, 2023 and 2024. Høiby was first arrested in August 2024. State attorney Sturla Henriksbø said the alleged crimes are “very serious acts that can destroy lives” and carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Additional counts cover death threats, traffic violations and breaches of restraining orders. Prosecutors said more than a dozen individuals are listed as aggrieved parties. Høiby denies the rape and most violence allegations but intends to admit lesser offences, according to his lawyer. The trial is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and is expected to run for about six weeks. Although Høiby holds no royal title and is outside the line of succession, the case is a rare criminal scandal for Norway’s monarchy. Crown Prince Haakon told reporters the royal family will “continue to carry out our duties as best we can” while acknowledging the proceedings are challenging for everyone involved.