Marius Borg Høiby, Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son, testified Thursday about the harsh realities of facing rape charges in Norway's prison system, describing complete isolation from other inmates and a covert exit under a blanket to avoid media attention.
Prison Hierarchy Puts Sex Offenders at Bottom
During his ongoing trial for four alleged sexual assault incidents, Høiby explained why he remains in protective custody at Norwegian correctional facilities. "It's probably the worst thing you can be charged with. That's why I'm in protective custody now," he told the court, according to VG.
The 29-year-old described a stark prison hierarchy where inmates charged with rape and pedophilia face threats from other prisoners. "Those who were in for pedophilia and rape didn't have it so good," Høiby testified. His defense attorney Ellen Holager Andenæs confirmed that rape charges carry severe social stigma even within Norway's rehabilitation-focused correctional system.
This isolation reflects broader challenges in Norwegian prisons, where the principle of "normality" that guides the country's progressive penal system breaks down for certain categories of offenders. Despite Norway's emphasis on rehabilitation over punishment, inmates facing sexual assault charges often require complete separation for their safety.
Media Circus Forces Unconventional Prison Exit
Høiby dismissed allegations that he received special treatment during his week-long detention at Hamar prison in 2024, except for one incident involving his release. When "the area was packed with press" outside the prison gates, the facility's director drove him out through a back exit while he hid under a blanket in the vehicle.
"The prison director drove me out the back way while I lay under a blanket in the trunk or back seat. It was to avoid this insane commotion with the press," Høiby explained. Jan Korsvold from Kriminalomsorgen i Innlandet confirmed this practice occurs when media attention creates safety concerns, though he noted prison directors don't typically handle such transfers personally.
The extraordinary media attention surrounding Norway's most high-profile criminal case in years has forced corrections officials to adapt standard procedures. While Norwegian law guarantees equal treatment regardless of social status, practical security considerations sometimes require flexibility.
Royal Connection Amplifies Legal Scrutiny
Høiby faces charges for allegedly assaulting unconscious women, inclUDIng incidents at an Oslo hotel and after-parties in spring 2024. The case carries potential sentences up to 10 years under Norwegian criminal law. He denies all charges, claiming he "does not sleep with women who are not awake," according to NRK.
The trial exposes uncomfortable tensions between Norway's egalitarian justice system and the reality of prosecuting someone connected to the royal family. While Høiby receives the same legal protections as any defendant, his case generates rare public interest that complicates standard correctional procedures.
Expect this trial to reshape how Norwegian authorities handle high-profile cases involving public figures, particularly regarding media management and prisoner safety protocols.
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