Norway’s future king has issued a strongly worded statement about step-son Marius Borg Høiby, ahead of the 29-year-old’s rape trial next week.
Crown Prince Haakon, who married Høiby’s mum, now Crown Princess Mette-Marit, in 2001, said the younger man is “an important part of our family” but not above the law.
“He is a citizen of Norway, and through that he has the same responsibilities as everyone else, but also the same rights,” Haakon said.
Norway’s future king has issued a strongly-worded statement about Marius Borg Høiby, ahead of the 29-year-old’s rape trial next week. (Nigel Waldron/Getty Images)
”It is good to know that we live in a state governed by the rule of law.
“I am sure and have confidence that those responsible for the trial will work to ensure that it is conducted in as orderly, proper and fair a manner as possible.”
He also emphasised that Høiby is not part of the Royal House, saying “in that sense he is free” of royal responsibilities.
The crown prince also sent his thoughts to the alleged victims and their families, saying “this is something that affects them, their families, those who love them”.
READ MORE: Queen Mary wears wedding tiara as she begins new royal tour
READ MORE: Proof Beatrice, Eugenie are standing by their exiled father Andrew
READ MORE: ‘Let go of the King’s hand’: 98-year-old reprimanded at palace event
Crown Prince Haakon, who married Høiby’s mum, now Crown Princess Mette-Marit, in 2001, said his step-son is “an important part of our family” but not above the law. (Getty)
“We care about them. We know that many of you are going through a difficult time right now,” he said.
Høiby’s trial is set to begin on February 3 at Oslo District Court but the royal household has said his parents will not be in the courtroom.
The crown princess, who is currently dealing with the worsening of her pulmonary fibrosis and being evaluated for a lung transplant, plans to stay at a private residence for the next few weeks.
The rest of the Norwegian royal family are set to continue their work and official duties throughout the trial.
Høiby’s trial is set to begin on February 3 at Oslo district court but the royal household have said his parents will not be in the courtroom. (Lise Aserud/NTB via AP)
Crown Prince Haakon is also father to Princess Ingrid Alexandra, the 22-year-old royal studying at Sydney University, and Prince Sverre Magnus of Norway, 20.
A charge of drug trafficking, two alleged breaches of a restraining order and three reported traffic violations were added on Tuesday to the 32 offences, including four counts of rape, Høiby was initially charged with in August.
For a daily dose of 9honey, subscribe to our newsletter here.
Høiby’s lawyer, Petar Sekulic, told Reuters at the time his client denies the most serious accusations against him, but plans to plead guilty to some lesser charges in court. (UK Press via Getty Images)
Høiby’s lawyer, Petar Sekulic, told Reuters at the time his client denies the most serious accusations against him, but plans to plead guilty to some lesser charges in court.
“He does not agree with the claims regarding rape and domestic violence,” Sekulic said of his client.
The trial is expected to continue until March 13.
FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE: Stay across all the latest in celebrity, lifestyle and opinion via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.