Norway court orders release of ailing crown princess’s son ahead of rape verdict

A Norway court on Monday ordered the release of ailing Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son Marius Borg Hoiby, who faces a multitude of charges including rape and abuse, citing her health crisis.

Prosecutors quickly appealed the decision, so Hoiby will remain in custody until the appeal is processed.

The 29-year-old, Mette-Marit’s son from a relationship before her 2001 marriage to Crown Prince Haakon, was on trial from February 3 to March 19.

He faces 40 criminal charges, including the rape of four women, that carry a maximum sentence of 16 years in prison.

His verdict is due on June 15.

Mette-Marit, who suffers from an incurable lung disease, has been placed on a waiting list for a lung transplant, ushering in a period of great uncertainty regarding her health.

Hoiby last week requested a release citing his 52-year-old mother’s health crisis. The police rejected it and left it for the court to decide.