Nathan Chasing Horse Found Guilty of Sexual Assault

A jury in Nevada recently convicted Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in “Dances with Wolves,” for sexually assaulting multiple Native American women and girls, revealing a pattern of abuse that had long been concealed.

The jury reached their verdict in Las Vegas, where they found Chasing Horse guilty on 13 out of 21 counts. Many of the offenses involved victims who were just 14 years old at the time these incidents began. Interestingly, he was found not guilty on some later charges when victims were older and living with him and others.

The 49-year-old now faces a minimum prison sentence of 25 years, with his sentencing date set for March 11.

Prosecutors asserted that Chasing Horse leveraged his image as a Lakota medicine man to exploit cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs, preying on vulnerable Native American women and girls. This verdict marks a significant moment following a years-long pursuit of accountability after his initial arrest in 2023, an event that reportedly sent shockwaves through the community.

Throughout the 11-day trial, jurors listened to the testimonies of three victims, some minors, who recounted being sexually assaulted by Chasing Horse. In response to the accusations, Deputy District Attorney Bianca Pucci explained that Chasing Horse had created a “web of abuse” that trapped these young women.

One key accuser, who began experiencing abuse at just 14 in 2012, testified that Chasing Horse had told her she needed to give up her virginity to a spirit to save her mother, who was suffering from cancer. The assaults allegedly continued, fueled by threats from her mother about dire consequences should she speak out.

Defense attorney Craig Mueller challenged the prosecution’s claims, arguing that there was a lack of physical evidence and eyewitness accounts. He cast doubt on the main accuser’s credibility, describing her as a “scorned woman.” After the verdict, he expressed confusion and disappointment and indicated he might pursue a new trial.

As the jury delivered its decision, Chasing Horse remained silent in the courtroom while victims and their supporters outside celebrated, some in tears, wearing yellow ribbons. The main victim chose not to make a statement after the trial.

Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney William Rowles emphasized that the verdict was a victory for the women who bravely came forward to share their stories. He expressed hope that they might find closure through the outcome of the trial.

District Attorney Steve Wolfson noted that the ruling sends a broader message about the refusal to tolerate exploitation and abuse, regardless of an individual’s public stature or claims of spiritual authority.

Chasing Horse, originally from the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, gained fame for his role as Smiles-A-Lot in the 1990 film, which notably highlighted Native American actors. His case comes at a time when there’s greater awareness around violence against indigenous women, a matter that has historically been underreported.

In addition to his Nevada charges, Chasing Horse faces similar allegations in other states and Canada. Following his sentencing, British Columbia prosecutors plan to review the situation and decide on a course of action.