Norway prosecutors seek over 7 years for crown prince’s son

OSLO – Prosecutors are seeking a seven-year and seven-month prison sentence for Marius Borg Høiby, the stepson of Norway’s crown prince, following a seven-week trial that has captivated the nation. He faces 40 charges including four counts of rape, domestic abuse, and multiple other offenses. Høiby has pleaded not guilty to the most serious accusations, including the rape allegations, while admitting to lesser charges such as offensive sexual behavior, driving offenses, and breaches of restraining orders. The prosecution believes he is guilty on 39 of the 40 charges. The trial has drawn intense attention both domestically and internationally, placing the royal family under scrutiny. It also coincided with an apology from Crown Princess Mette-Marit regarding past contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, contributing to a decline in the monarchy’s popularity. The court proceedings are scheduled to conclude on Thursday.