Even during the trial against Marius Borg Høiby (29), the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit (52), the Norwegian Royal House had been very reserved in its statements. And even after the verdict, the court seems to continue on the path of royal restraint regarding this matter.
"The Royal House will not comment on the outcome"
Most recently, Crown Prince Haakon (52) had briefly commented on his stepson during his trip to Japan in early June: "We have heard that the verdict is expected in June, and we are prepared for that." On Monday morning, the time had come, and the court in Oslo sentenced the 29-year-old to four years in prison for, among other things, two counts of assault. However, Norwegians should probably not hope for a reaction from the royal family. As "VG" reported, the palace communicated via email that the Royal House would not comment on the outcome of the proceedings. "The case was handled by the court, and the Royal House will not comment on the outcome", is quoted from the message. "Aftenposten" also received this response from the palace's communications department.
On Tuesday, both Queen Sonja (88) and Crown Prince Haakon have appointments. Sonja will receive according to the official schedule representatives of the Norwegian Opera and Ballet, while her son will receive consuls at the palace. Whether there will be comments on the verdict then remains to be seen.
Parties now have two weeks to file an appeal
It also remains to be seen whether an appeal will be filed. Prosecutor Henriksbø stated to "VG": "We have two weeks to consider whether we want to appeal the verdict, and we will consider that." The prosecution had demanded a prison sentence of seven years and seven months. Marius Borg Høiby's defense attorneys stated that they first want to read the verdict thoroughly and consult with their client about an appeal. However, it is "likely" that they will file an appeal.
Additionally, the defense once again demanded Høiby's release. "We consider it important to use this opportunity to secure his release. He desperately wants to be with his mother", said defense attorney Ellen Holager Andenæs to "VG". The Crown Princess suffers from chronic pulmonary fibrosis, and her condition has deteriorated in recent months. The 29-year-old has been in pretrial detention since the day before the trial began on February 3. He has requested his release several times, but the court has denied it each time.
