Durek Verrett’s stepson and the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Marius Borg Høiby, has been formally indicted on 32 charges, including rape, sexual abuse, and physical assault.
Prosecutors in Oslo confirmed that the 28-year-old faces one of the most high-profile criminal cases in recent Norwegian history.
According to state prosecutor Johan Christian Henriksbø, the indictment covers incidents involving multiple women, some dating back several years.
Høiby, who has been under scrutiny since a series of arrests last year, denies the majority of the charges.
His defense attorney, Petar Sekulic, said in an emailed statement that his client “denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence,” and will present his version of events during the trial.
The case is expected to begin in mid-January 2026 and could last up to six weeks, according to Norwegian broadcaster NRK.
Henriksbø confirmed that Høiby is currently free pending trial and that there was “no reason at this time” to detain him before proceedings begin.
The royal palace issued a brief statement, stressing that the matter is for the courts to decide and that they would not interfere in the legal process.
Norwegian media reports suggest that at least nine women have provided testimony against Høiby, with allegations ranging from coercion to rape. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence.
This indictment comes at a sensitive time for the Norwegian royal family, which has faced public criticism over transparency and accountability in dealing with scandals involving extended members.