The trial of Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Norway’s crown princess, began on Tuesday with charges that include rape, marking the start of a series of legal proceedings that have negatively impacted the royal family’s reputation.

As the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship and the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, Høiby, 29, does not hold any royal title or official responsibilities. He has been under public scrutiny since facing multiple arrests in 2024 on various allegations.

Høiby appeared in the Oslo district court on Tuesday for the trial, which is expected to run until March 19. The charges against him total 38, encompassing accusations of rape, domestic abuse against a former partner, violent acts towards another individual, and the transportation of 3.5 kilograms of marijuana. Additional allegations include making death threats and traffic violations.

Prosecutors have highlighted that Høiby could potentially receive a ten-year prison sentence if found guilty, with seven alleged victims set to provide testimony during the trial. The judge, acknowledging the global interest in the case, conducted proceedings in English and emphasized the prohibition of recording or photographing inside the courtroom, noting that some witness testimonies would be confidential.

Høiby’s defense team has categorically denied the charges of sexual abuse and most of the violence-related accusations. The defendant was released on bail until Sunday when authorities rearrested him on fresh charges of assault, knife threats, and breaching a restraining order. Following a court ruling on Monday, Høiby was remanded in custody for up to four weeks due to concerns about reoffending.

The case centers around four alleged rapes occurring between 2018 and November 2024, as well as instances of violence and threats towards former and current partners. Despite ongoing legal proceedings, Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit have stated their decision not to attend the trial or offer public comments.

While King Harald and the royal family enjoy widespread popularity in Norway, the scandal involving Høiby has tarnished their public image. The trial coincides with renewed scrutiny on Mette-Marit’s previous interactions with Jeffrey Epstein, following the recent release of additional documents from the Epstein files containing numerous references to the crown princess.