Nathan Chasing Horse receives a life sentence for sexual assault.

Dances with Wolves Actor Sentenced for Sexual Assault

Nathan Chasing Horse, known for his role in “Dances with Wolves,” has received a life sentence for sexual assault. A judge in Nevada pronounced the sentence on Monday, following a jury’s guilty verdict on 13 out of 21 charges against him. Many of these charges involved victims who were just 14 years old when the incidents began.

During the hearing, Chasing Horse looked straight ahead as one of the victims and her family shared their ongoing trauma with Judge Jessica Peterson. In response, he claimed, “This is a miscarriage of justice,” still maintaining his innocence regarding the charges.

While Chasing Horse was acquitted of several counts, the accusations stemmed from a time when one of the victims was older and living with him and others associated with him.

At his trial in January, prosecutors argued that the former actor had exploited his reputation as a Lakota prayer warrior, using cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs to manipulate Native American women and girls.

This conclusion marks a significant moment in a long battle to hold Chasing Horse accountable, following his initial arrest and indictment in 2023. The trial sparked considerable concern in the region regarding the underreporting and lack of prosecution surrounding violence against Indigenous women.

Throughout the 11-day trial, jurors listened to testimonies from three women, some minors, detailing how Chasing Horse had sexually assaulted them. The jury’s decision to convict was based on the evidence provided by all three accusers.

The actor hails from the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, representing the Sicangu Sioux Tribe, part of the Lakota nation. He gained fame from Kevin Costner’s Oscar-winning film, which is noted for featuring Native American actors prominently.

In addition to his conviction in Nevada, Chasing Horse is facing sex crime charges in other jurisdictions, including Canada, where prosecutors are currently reviewing their next steps in light of his sentencing and ongoing appeal process.