Norway Court Orders Princess's Son Released Before Trial Verdict

A court in Norway made an important decision about a member of the royal family. On June 8, they ordered the release of Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son, Marius Borg Hoiby. He is 29 years old and facing very serious criminal charges. The court decided to let him go because his mother is extremely sick and needs a new lung.

Hoiby has been charged with 40 different crimes, including rape and violence. His trial lasted from February 3 to March 19 of this year. The most serious charges say he attacked four women while they were sleeping or unconscious. If he is found guilty of all charges, he could spend up to 16 years in prison.

The reason for his possible release is his mother's health crisis. Crown Princess Mette-Marit has a rare lung disease that cannot be cured. She has been put on a waiting list to receive a new lung from a donor. Her condition has been getting worse, and she often cannot do her royal duties because she is too sick.

Hoiby asked the court to let him out of jail because of his mother's illness. He told the judge that staying locked up while knowing his mom was so sick was too hard to bear. The police had already said no to his request, but they let the court make the final choice about whether to release him.

Even though the court ordered his release, he will not get out right away. The prosecutors disagreed with the court's decision and quickly appealed it. This means Hoiby must stay in jail until a higher court reviews the case. His final verdict on all the charges will be announced on June 15.