On the eve of his trial, Marius Borg Høiby, 29, was arrested on additional charges of assault, including wielding a knife and violating a restraining order. This arrest marks the fourth time he has been detained since August 2024, when he first came under investigation for various offenses, including assault and drug possession.

The Oslo District Court has agreed with police to keep him in custody for four weeks to prevent further alleged offenses. Høiby is expected to face a total of 38 charges related to rape, domestic violence, and drug trafficking. Prosecutors indicate that if convicted on all counts, he could face a prison term of up to 10 to 16 years.

His mother, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has expressed "deep sympathy" for the victims involved, amid revelations about her past communications with Jeffrey Epstein, which have also attracted negative attention to the royal family. Following the trial's commencement, public confidence in the monarchy is being tested, though opinion polls still show a high level of support for King Harald and Queen Sonja.

The royal family has distanced itself from Høiby, with Crown Prince Haakon emphasizing that although he is a member of the family, he is not part of the royal house, highlighting his status as a private citizen. Haakon's statement reflects their ambition to maintain the monarchy's dignity amid scandal, indicating that they would refrain from public comment during the trial proceedings.

As the trial unfolds, it is expected that the media will closely scrutinize not only the details of Høiby's alleged offenses but also the impact this case will have on the Norwegian royal family's reputation and future. Given the serious nature of the charges against him, the next few weeks are critical for both Høiby and the monarchy at large.