Norway's Skaugum rape trial heard Royal Guards describe a 'fine atmosphere' at the 2018 party where Marius Borg Høiby faces assault charges. Their accounts, delivered in court on Thursday, painted a picture of a casual night that later became the center of a criminal investigation. Høiby is accused of rape without intercourse at 07:17 that December morning, with prosecutors presenting video evidence they say proves the crime.
The Evening's Events
Two guards and two party attendees provided testimony about the nachspiel at Skaugum, the royal residence in Asker. A female guard who greeted guests said the mood was quite good. She noted people were not extremely drunk but in high spirits. This guard spoke briefly with the alleged victim on the way in, describing her as really sweet and friendly. The woman even asked if the guard was doing well in the cold, showing concern.
The guard assessed the woman's level of intoxication as a middle ground—not very drunk but not entirely sober. She was fully capable of standing on her own and moving freely. The alleged victim expressed interest in the guard's weapon, finding it cool that a woman was serving in the Royal Guard. However, she was not allowed to hold it.
Shift Change and Departure
Later, another female guard took over the watch. She testified that Høiby came outside with the woman and said he had ordered a taxi to arrive at her post. According to this guard, Høiby and the woman hugged before he went back inside. The woman then approached the guard and chatted with her for 10 to 15 minutes.
At one point, the taxi drove to the wrong location. The guard suggested the woman go back inside so they could reorder the taxi, but she refused. The guard recalled the woman saying she did not want to go back in, and it was not exactly scary, but she was hesitant. After about ten minutes, the taxi returned, and the woman got in. As it drove off, she rolled down the window and thanked the guard for the nice conversation.
Video Evidence and Denial
Prosecutors have shown four videos and ten still images from 07:12 to 07:17 that Høiby allegedly filmed. They argue this material demonstrates the rape without intercourse. Høiby denies all accusations, stating he does not remember taking the videos. In court, he maintained his innocence, responding to questions about the evidence with claims of no recollection.
The guards' testimonies form a key part of the prosecution's narrative, highlighting the woman's state and interactions before the alleged incident. Their descriptions of her behavior—friendly, coherent, and capable—could influence perceptions of her condition during the crucial minutes captured on video.
Legal Proceedings and Context
The trial involves detailed examination of witness statements and digital evidence. Rape without intercourse is a serious offense under Norwegian law, encompassing acts that violate sexual integrity without penetration. The case has drawn attention due to its location at Skaugum, a secured property, and the social circles involved.
Høiby's defense centers on disputing the prosecution's interpretation of the videos and his own memory lapses. The court must weigh the guard accounts against the visual evidence, considering timelines and behaviors described. The female guards' observations provide a backdrop to the alleged crime, suggesting the woman was alert and social shortly before the incident.