Hoiby, 29, the son of Mette-Marit from a relationship before her 2001 marriage to Haakon, is facing 40 charges that could see him jailed for up to 16 years.
Prosecutors in Norway on Wednesday urged the court to hand Marius Borg Hoiby a prison sentence of seven years and seven months over allegations of rape, drug-related offences, and marijuana trafficking, as his high-profile trial nears its conclusion.
Hoiby, 29, the son of Mette-Marit from a relationship before her 2001 marriage to Haakon, is facing 40 charges that carry a maximum penalty of up to 16 years behind bars.
The closely watched case, which has drawn global attention, centres on accusations that he raped four women, alongside a range of other offences, including drug-related crimes.
“Rape can leave lasting scars and destroy lives,” prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo told the court in Oslo during closing arguments. “It can be something the victim carries with them for their entire life.”
At the core of the case are allegations that the victims were asleep or unconscious at the time of the incidents, raising serious legal questions about consent. Prosecutors argue the women were in no state to give it. Hoiby has denied all rape claims, insisting that every encounter was consensual.
Throughout the trial, he said he experienced repeated blackouts during the nights in question and maintained he would not knowingly engage in sex with someone who was asleep.
However, the prosecution painted a starkly different picture. In closing remarks, Henriksbo described Hoiby as someone who believed he could act without consequence and showed little regard for consent, particularly “when they were asleep and he wanted more.”
Testimony also pointed to a pattern of heavy partying involving alcohol and drugs, with prosecutors alleging the incidents occurred after such nights—sometimes following initially consensual encounters.
The case further includes accusations of transporting 3.5 kilograms of marijuana. While Hoiby admitted involvement, he claimed there was no financial motive.
Investigators reportedly uncovered crucial evidence after his arrest in August 2024, initially tied to an alleged assault on his girlfriend. Searches of his phone and laptop later revealed videos and images that authorities say pointed to additional offences.
Beyond the rape and drug allegations, Hoiby is accused of physically abusing former partners, issuing threats, breaching restraining orders, and committing property damage and traffic violations.
The prosecutor described him as prone to anger and, particularly under the influence, capable of losing control. Testimony included claims of violent outbursts such as throwing objects, kicking walls, and acts of physical aggression.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Henriksbo noted: “Marius Borg Hoiby is not a monster. None of us are. He should be judged not for who he is, but for what he has done.”
During the proceedings, Hoiby appeared subdued, often slouched at the defendant’s table. While he has pleaded guilty to some lesser offences, he continues to contest the most serious charges.
In an emotional moment last week, he broke down in court, speaking about the toll the case has taken on his life. “I’m no longer Marius, I’m a monster. I’ve become the hate target of all of Norway,” he said, citing intense media scrutiny.
The scandal has had a significant impact on public perception of Norway’s royal family, despite Hoiby not holding an official royal role. One alleged incident is said to have taken place at the crown prince couple’s residence while they were at home, further fuelling controversy.
The case has sparked nationwide debate over privilege, accountability, and how sexual assault allegations involving high-profile individuals are handled.
Following the prosecution’s closing arguments, lawyers for the alleged victims are expected to address the court before the defence presents its final submissions. A verdict is anticipated in the coming weeks or months, bringing an end to a case that has gripped the nation and attracted international attention.