Høiby, who appeared in court without his mother or stepfather, Crown Prince Haakon, stood for 24 minutes while prosecutor Sturla Henriksbo read out the 38 counts against him at the Oslo district court, asking him if he was pleading guilty. He replied “no” to each of the most serious charges, including four counts of rape.

However, he pleaded guilty to several driving offences, to an aggravated drugs offence and breaking a restraining order, and “partly” to threats and aggravated assault. 

Høiby appeared in court wearing glasses, a brown jumper and beige trousers and is understood to have spoken quietly, while regularly conferring with his lawyer.

Prosecutors have said that Hoiby could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted in the trial, which is scheduled to last until March 19. Seven alleged victims are expected to give evidence, and it has been confirmed that some witnesses' testimony will be heard in private.

“There is equality before the law,” Mr Henriksbo told the court. “The defendant is the son of the crown princess. He is part of the Royal Family. He shall nevertheless be treated in the same way as any other person who is charged with the same offences.”

Hoiby’s defence team has said that he “denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence”.

The indictment revolves around four alleged rapes between 2018 and November 2024; alleged violence and threats against a former partner between the summer of 2022 and the autumn of 2023; and two alleged acts of violence against a subsequent partner, along with violations of a restraining order.

Høiby's charges also include abuse in a close relationship against one former partner, acts of violence against another and transporting 3.5kg of marijuana. Others include making death threats and traffic violations.

He was arrested on Sunday evening for assault, threats with a knife and violation of a restraining order. Yesterday, the Oslo court granted a request to keep him in detention for up to four weeks on the grounds of a risk of reoffending.

It was further confirmed in court that Høiby contests his detention, and his legal team is considering an appeal as soon as he and the other person can provide statements to the police.