Palace issues statement after royal's son charged with rape

The Norwegian Palace has released a statement to mark the Crown Princess’s 52nd birthday, just hours after her eldest son was charged with 32 offences. Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who is married to Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to the Norwegian throne, celebrated her 52nd birthday yesterday and the Palace publicly wished her a happy birthday.

A new official birthday photograph, taken by Carina Johansen, was shared on the Royal Family’s Instagram accompanied by the following message: “Happy birthday to Crown Princess Mette‑Marit, who celebrates her birthday today!”

It comes after her son, Marius Borg Høiby, was charged with 32 offences, including four counts of rape, on Monday. The charges against the 28-year-old include the abuse of a former partner and violations of restraining orders against another former partner.

Marius was born to a relationship before Crown Princess Mette-Marit married Crown Prince Haakon, who is the future king of Norway.

He denies the most serious accusations against him, but plans to plead guilty to some lesser charges when the trial starts, his lawyer Petar Sekulic told Reuters news agency. He could face up to 10 years in prison if found guilty of the most serious charges.

Oslo state attorney Sturla Henriksbo said: "This case is very serious. Rape and violence in close relationships are very serious acts that can leave lasting traces and destroy lives. The fact that Marius Borg Høiby is a member of the royal family should, of course, not mean that he should be treated more lightly or more severely than if similar acts had been committed by others."

The Norwegian Royal Family issued a statement to Norwegian media outlet NRK, which read: "The case is taking its course in the legal system, and follows normal procedures. We have nothing more to add."

The trial could take place in January and last some six weeks.