Marius Borg Høiby, the son of the Norwegian Crown Princess, has been charged with raping a woman in Lofoten in 2023. The prosecution and the woman involved assert that the assault occurred while she was asleep, which Høiby has vehemently denied, insisting that any sexual encounter was consensual. In court, derogatory messages sent by Høiby to a friend about the alleged victim were presented, which Høiby claimed were never intended for public view and should not bear significance in the trial.

During the court proceedings, the prosecutor Sturla Henriksbø read excerpts from screenshots of messages Høiby had sent to a friend following a party in Lofoten. The prosecution argues that these communications are critical, occurring soon after the alleged incident, and suggest his attitude towards the victim. Høiby, upon being pressed about the contents of these exchanges, characterized them as 'despicable boys' talk,' indicating that he saw them as inappropriate jokes rather than serious commentary.

The implications of this case are significant on several fronts, given Høiby's prominent background and the serious nature of the allegations. The trial not only underlines the ongoing discourse around consent and accountability but also puts a spotlight on how public figures navigate their personal conduct and comments, particularly in sensitive situations involving allegations of sexual assault. As the case unfolds, it will likely draw considerable public attention and discussion around the societal attitudes towards such matters in Norway.