The trial of Marius Borg Høiby (29), son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit, is concluding at Oslo District Court, with prosecutors requesting he be found guilty on 39 of 40 charges and sentenced to a total of 7 years and 7 months in prison. The most serious charges include four counts of rape and serious assault, which Høiby denies, while admitting to lesser offences such as drug possession and traffic violations.

The trial, which began in early February and lasted nearly seven weeks, has been front-page news daily in Norway. Høiby maintained in court that all sexual encounters with the four women were consensual, but prosecutors argued the women were asleep or incapacitated, with non-consensual videos recorded in three cases. State prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø emphasized that prior consensual sex was irrelevant to the rape charges, stating, "Rape can leave lasting scars and destroy lives."

Høiby pleaded guilty to some lesser charges, including transporting 3.5kg of marijuana—which alone could carry an 11-month sentence—reckless driving, and breaching a restraining order. His defense lawyers are contesting the rape and assault allegations, though commentators suggest he may receive a reduced sentence for admitted crimes. The drug and traffic offences add to the prosecution's case for a lengthy prison term.

During testimony, Høiby complained of intense media scrutiny and public hatred, saying, "I'm not Marius any more, I'm a monster." Prosecutor Henriksbø countered that Høiby was "not a monster" and should be judged solely on his actions. The three judges will retire to deliberate after closing arguments, with a verdict expected soon in this high-profile case that has captivated Norwegian society.

Source: www.bbc.com