The rape trial of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son Marius Borg Høiby was set to end on schedule on Thursday following the defence’s closing statement.
The trial, which began in early February, has shocked Norway and drawn global media attention.
On the final day of proceedings, Høiby’s lawyer described the intense media scrutiny as a major burden for his client.
Belonging to the royal family had not made the situation easier, defence lawyer Petar Sekulic said in court, according to newspaper Verdens Gang, adding that Høiby was deeply affected by the impact of the case on his family.
The defence’s closing arguments were expected to take up most of the day.
Høiby has been charged with four counts of rape. The 29-year-old filmed the alleged offences, and photos and video recordings on his mobile phones have played an important role in the trial.
On Wednesday, the public prosecutor’s office demanded seven years and seven months in prison for the defendant.
Prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø called for him to be convicted on 39 of the 40 charges. Høiby should be acquitted of one charge of contravening a no-contact order, he said.
In this case, Høiby apparently inadvertently called his ex-girlfriend despite a ban.
The accused is said to have had consensual sex with three of the women for a longer period of time before the alleged sexual offences, which the public prosecutor said should have a mitigating effect on the sentence.
Høiby has denied the sexual offence charges but admitted some of the other allegations he faces.
His defence lawyer will make a final statement to the court on Thursday.
The judgement is expected at a later date.
Høiby is Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship and the step-son of Crown Prince Haakon, who is heir to the throne.
While part of the extended royal family, Høiby holds no title and is not an official member of the Norwegian royal household.