Marius Borg Høiby (29) will not contest his ongoing pre-trial detention for now. As the defense attorney for the eldest son of Norwegian Crown Princess Mette-Marit (52) confirmed to the newspaper "Aftenposten", his client is waiving an appeal against the latest detention order. This means the 29-year-old will remain in custody at least until July 13.
Appeal Against Criminal Sentence
However, attorney Petar Sekulic makes an important distinction: Høiby will not contest the pre-trial detention - but he will definitely appeal his conviction to four years in prison.
Just over a week ago, an Oslo court sentenced the stepson of Crown Prince Haakon (52) to four years in prison. The judges found him guilty of a total of 34 criminal offenses, including two instances of violation under Norwegian law, abuse, and multiple acts of violence.
Høiby denies the violation and abuse allegations and maintains his innocence in this regard, which is why his lawyers are filing an appeal against this verdict. The decision is therefore not yet final. However, according to Norwegian media, a new trial could not begin until next year.
What Happens After July 13?
How long Høiby will ultimately remain behind bars is likely to remain uncertain for some time. After the official end of his pre-trial detention, the prosecution must decide whether to request an extension. If Høiby objects to such an extension, the district court must review the detention again. Should the proceedings be prolonged due to the appeal, alternatives such as an electronic ankle monitor would have to be considered.
Concern for Ailing Mette-Marit
Marius Borg Høiby has been in pre-trial detention since February 2. On the very day the verdict was announced, he had requested release from custody. The Oslo District Court denied the request because the three judges consider detention until July 13 necessary and proportionate. The court cited concerns that Høiby might violate the existing contact ban after release and approach the injured woman.
Høiby had already unsuccessfully requested his release multiple times. He had justified this in part by citing his mother's health condition. Crown Princess Mette-Marit suffers from the incurable lung disease pulmonary fibrosis and underwent a lung transplant last week.
